Three officers injured after lorry on wrong side of road hits police car

Three police officers have been hurt during an incident in which a lorry was driven at speed on the wrong side of a road in Co Down.

Police have arrested a man on suspicion of a number of offences following the late-night vehicle pursuit.

Chief Inspector Will Brown said police were called to reports of a blue articulated lorry swerving on Moygannon Road in the Warrenpoint area at about 11.25pm on Saturday.

He said: “Officers responded and located a lorry matching the description on the Derryleckagh Road, Newry.

“When signalled to stop by a police patrol vehicle, it failed to do so and a short pursuit ensued.”

The officer said the lorry was driven at speed and on the wrong side of the road before it struck a police vehicle and continued towards Rostrevor.

Mr Brown added: “Three officers inside the police vehicle sustained injuries, which are not believed to be serious at this time.

“The patrol car was extensively damaged.

“The lorry later came to a stop in the Water Street area of Rostrevor where the driver, aged 36, made off on foot but was detained by officers following a short foot chase.

“He was arrested on suspicion of a number of motoring offences, including driving while disqualified, driving while unfit through drink or drugs, and dangerous driving.”

The suspect remains in custody.

Mr Brown said: “Our officers put themselves on the front line to help keep people safe.

“Thankfully, no one sustained more serious injuries during this incident, including officers and other road users.”

Any witnesses or anyone with dashcam footage of its movements is asked to contact police on 101, quoting reference number 1770 of 17/10/26.