A police pursuit involving a black Audi A4 in west Belfast ended with a dramatic confrontation early Saturday morning, resulting in a 50-year-old man’s arrest and injuries to four police officers.
At approximately 02:30 GMT on March 22, 2025, officers from the Police Service of Northern Ireland (PSNI) initiated a pursuit after the Audi failed to stop in the Servia Street area. The black sedan was observed exhibiting dangerously erratic behavior, weaving onto the wrong side of the road, ignoring right-of-way at junctions, and even driving the wrong way around a roundabout.
As the chase unfolded, Armed Response officers were deployed to assist in stopping the vehicle, which ultimately halted on Upper Springfield Road. However, the situation escalated when the driver attempted to flee again, reverse ramming one of the police vehicles. Chief Inspector Pete Cunningham reported that an officer, who was in the process of exiting the passenger seat, was jolted into the doorframe by the force of the collision.
During the incident, both police cars sustained significant damage and are now off the road for repairs—an action that has direct implications for community safety given the reduction in police availability.
Four officers sustained minor injuries throughout this reckless pursuit. Fortunately, all remained on duty, demonstrating notable resilience amid the challenges they frequently face. "Our priority is their safety and welfare and, as an organization, we will ensure support is available where it’s needed," Cunningham stated.
After ramming the police vehicles, the suspect attempted to escape but collided with a second police car, further highlighting the reckless driving behavior displayed throughout the pursuit. With the driver now in custody, he faces several charges including dangerous driving, driving when unfit, and failing to stop for police.
Cunningham expressed relief that the injuries were not more severe, noting the potential threat to public safety. "Thankfully we are not dealing with more serious injuries today - and the actions of the driver responsible for the pursuit and subsequent collision with our officers is totally unacceptable. Members of the public could have also been injured during this completely reckless and dangerous incident," he remarked.
The police are now appealing for any witnesses to come forward and provide information or footage related to the incident. The public’s assistance could be vital, as officials want to ensure accountability in this thoroughly disturbing case.
Individuals with relevant information are encouraged to contact the police on 101, citing reference number 130 of 22/3/2025. The PSNI has also made provisions for anonymous reporting through Crimestoppers and is urging anyone with dashcam footage or other recordings to contribute to the ongoing investigation.
This incident underscores the potential hazards police face in the line of duty and the vigilance required to safeguard both officers and the community they serve. As investigations continue, authorities remain focused on ensuring justice and preventing such reckless activities from occurring in the future.
