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Attempted murder arrest after sword attack on man

BBC Ballaghbeg Park signBBC

A man is being treated for facial wounds and a severe arm injury following a suspected sword attack in Newcastle, County Down.

It happened in Ballaghbeg Park shortly before 03:45 BST.

A man in his 30s has been arrested on suspicion of attempted murder.

Police said the victim was reportedly hit on the head repeatedly with an object.

Marked police car parked on a street. There are other cars and a bungalow in the background

The suspect is being held on suspicion of a number of offences, including attempted murder, grievous bodily harm with intent, possession of an offensive weapon with intent, and possessing article with blade or point in public place.

'Deeply concerning attack'

Grey haired and bearded man with a green jumper
Colin McGrath said the attack was unacceptable and frightening

Social Democratic and Labour Party assembly member Colin McGrath said the incident was deeply concerning.

“To have anyone walking around the streets with a sword and inflicting injury on somebody else is totally unacceptable," he said.

“I think people will be rightly concerned if there’s any form of injuries inflicted on others, especially in the middle of the night, or at any time, but when a sword is used."