Police are appealing for information following an incident at Drumcree Road, Portadown earlier today, Sunday 4th August.
Shortly after 1pm a silver coloured Seat Alhambra car struck a police officer and a member of the public who were in attendance at a parade in the area and made off without stopping.
The car was abandoned a short time later at Churchill Park and witnesses reported seeing three men making off on foot from the car.
Further reports have been received of the same car being driven dangerously through Portadown earlier in the day.
Inspector Brian Mills said: “Thankfully the officer and member of the public were not seriously injured but this incident could have been much worse.
“We are working to establish the identity of the driver of the car and I would ask anyone who can assist us with our enquiries to contact officers at Lurgan on 101 quoting reference number 1139 04/08/19.
“Alternatively, information can also be provided to the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111which is 100% anonymous and gives people the power to speak up and stop crime.”
DUP councillor Lavelle McIlwrath welcomed the arrest of a man along with the seizure of a vehicle suspected of being involved in two hit and run incidents close to Drumcree earlier today.
“It would appear a vehicle was driving recklessly and dangerously toward both civilians and police close to Drumcree Church in Portadown and but for swift evasive action by those targeted the injuries could have been much worse,” said councillor McIlwrath.
“This incident had the potential to be devastating for both civilians and Police and must be condemned in the strongest terms.
“I very much welcome the arrest and trust and pray that both the Police officer and civilian make a swift recovery. Anyone with information about this incident should pass it to the PSNI immediately.”
UUP MLA Doug Beattie described it as “a disgraceful act” which, he added, “I can only assume was carried out to stir tensions within the community. Thankful the injuries sustained are not life threatening”.
DUP MLA Jonathan Buckley said the incident is “extremely worrying incident” and one “which could have resulted in serious injuries or potentially even worse”.
He added: “I condemn this attack on Portadown District’s parade and protest at Drumcree. Police must act swiftly to bring those responsible to justice.”
Alliance councillor Peter Lavery said: “I completely condemn this attack that happened in Portadown today.
“Thankfully the police officer and member of the public that were struck are not seriously injured but it could have been a lot worse.
“If you have any information about this incident please pass it on to the PSNI.”
Elsewhere in Portadown this afternoon there has been a serious road traffic collision on the Northway, close to the junction turn-off for the hospital.
Two vehicles were involved. More on this serious incident to follow.
