An attempted murder investigation is underway following an incident in Downpatrick, County Down, where a Police Service of Northern Ireland (PSNI) officer was struck by a stolen police vehicle. The event occurred at 4:45 AM on Sunday when the officer was pursuing a suspect on foot after a vehicle failed to stop for police. Upon returning to their patrol car, the officer found a man in the driver's seat of the stolen vehicle, which was then driven directly at him. The officer discharged his firearm but was hit by the vehicle, resulting in serious, though non-life-threatening, injuries. He has been hospitalized for treatment. A 27-year-old suspect has been arrested on suspicion of attempted murder and is currently in custody. Assistant Chief Constable Melanie Jones stated that urgent medical assistance was provided at the scene and highlighted the risks officers face daily. The PSNI has appealed for any witnesses or footage related to the incident.