DUNGANNON – A 21-year-old man, Eoin Carlin of Collon Lane in Derry, has appeared before Dungannon Magistrates’ Court charged with the attempted murder of a police officer.
The charges stem from an incident on Thursday at Collon Lane, where PSNI officers were allegedly attacked with a large hunting knife while attempting to make an arrest.
Details of the Attack
During the court hearing, a PSNI Detective Constable outlined the claims:
- As officers moved in to make the arrest, the accused reportedly produced a hunting knife with a five-inch blade from behind his back and lashed out.
- An attempt was made to stab one officer in the torso, but the officer was saved by his protective body armour. The officer later described feeling the “pressure” of the knife making contact with his vest and remained on duty.
- A second officer sustained a gash to his left leg, which required six stitches. This officer is currently incapacitated and recuperating at home.
The Detective Constable confirmed to the court that she believed she could connect Mr. Carlin to the charges.
Charges and Defence Submission
In addition to attempted murder, Mr. Carlin faces a range of other charges, including wounding, possession of a weapon, assault, and drugs offences.
Appearing via videolink, the accused’s solicitor informed the court that his client has a history of mental health difficulties. The solicitor also argued that his client had not realised for much of the incident that he was dealing with police officers.
The defence further noted that Mr. Carlin had enquired about the well-being of the two officers during his police interview.
No bail application was made on Mr. Carlin’s behalf. He was remanded in custody to appear again in person at Derry courthouse on December 18.
A separate individual appeared in court yesterday on offences linked to the same incident.
