By On Christmas Eve, December 24, a violent stabbing incident shocked the seaside town of Bangor in County Down, Northern Ireland. Two people were seriously hurt in what was meant to be a quiet holiday afternoon.
Police are searching for a suspect they believe is dangerous and still at large. The public has been clearly warned not to approach him.
This article explains the attack, the police response, the wider context of a second violent incident, and why public help is vital. It includes the suspect description, injury details, safety guidance, and the effect on the local community.
A Shock in Bangor on Christmas Eve
At around 3:30 pm, police received reports of a stabbing at a home on Chippendale Avenue in Bangor.
Officers found that a man had forced entry into a property while armed with a knife and a hammer. Inside, he attacked two people.
The victims were:
- A man in his 20s
- A woman in her 50s
Both were taken to hospital for treatment. Police initially confirmed that one person was in critical condition, while the other suffered serious injuries.
The suspect fled the scene before officers arrived. Police quickly sealed off the area and began a full investigation.
Emergency Response and Police Action
Police units arrived within minutes and secured the scene. Forensic teams searched the house and surrounding area.
Officers:
- Interviewed neighbors
- Checked nearby CCTV cameras
- Collected physical evidence
- Increased patrols in the area
- Residents reported a heavy police presence throughout the evening. Streets nearby remained quiet as officers continued their work.
Who Is the Suspect?
Police issued a clear description to help identify the suspect. They believe he remains armed and dangerous.
Suspect Description
- Height: About 5ft 10in
- Hair: Short and dark
- Clothing:
- Blue hoodie
- Grey coat
- Dark t-shirt
- Blue jeans
- Dark trainers with white soles
The suspect was last seen carrying a knife and a hammer.
Police strongly advise the public not to approach him under any circumstances.
Police Appeal to the Public
Investigators believe members of the public may hold key information.
Police are asking for:
- CCTV or doorbell footage from the area
- Dashcam recordings from nearby roads
- Witness accounts from people near Chippendale Avenue
- Any sightings of the suspect before or after the attack
Anyone who sees a person matching the description should keep a safe distance and contact police immediately.
Anonymous tips can also be shared through crime reporting services.
Community Reaction in Bangor
The attack caused shock and fear across Bangor, especially given the timing on Christmas Eve.
Residents described the incident as sudden and deeply upsetting. Many said they were preparing for family celebrations when police activity filled the street.
Local community leaders urged calm and encouraged people to:
- Avoid spreading rumors
- Share verified information only
- Support police efforts
Parents expressed concern about safety, while neighbors checked on each other in the hours after the attack.
Separate Violent Incident in Banbridge
Just one day earlier, another serious assault took place in Banbridge, County Down.
At around 8:30 pm, a man was attacked outside a hotel on Lurgan Road.
During the attack:
- A liquid was thrown into the victim’s face
- He tried to escape but fell
- He was slashed multiple times across the back
- The attackers fled in a vehicle
The suspects were male and had covered faces. Police believe they escaped in a black Toyota Avensis.
Are the Incidents Connected?
At this stage, police have not confirmed any link between the Bangor stabbing and the Banbridge attack.
However, the short time gap between the incidents has increased public concern across County Down.
Both cases remain under active investigation.
Police Presence and Ongoing Investigation
Police continue to maintain patrols in both Bangor and Banbridge.
Their focus includes:
- Locating suspects
- Reassuring the public
- Reviewing surveillance footage
- Preventing further incidents
Senior officers stated that violent attacks of this nature are treated with the highest priority.
Timeline of Events
| Date & Time | Event |
|---|---|
| Dec 23, ~20:30 | Man attacked outside Banbridge hotel |
| Dec 24, ~15:30 | Two people stabbed in Bangor |
| Dec 24–25 | Police issue public warning |
| Following days | Ongoing search and CCTV review |
Public Safety Guidance
Police have issued simple safety advice:
- Stay alert in public areas
- Avoid confrontation
- Keep distance from suspicious individuals
- Report concerns without delay
Quick reporting can help protect others and speed up arrests.
Impact on Public Safety
Violent crime of this nature is rare in County Down. These incidents have raised concerns about:
- Community safety
- Weapon access
- Holiday period security
- Police stressed that public cooperation plays a key role in resolving such cases.
Conclusion
The County Down stabbing in Bangor has left two people injured and a community shaken.
Police continue to search for the suspect and are asking for public help. A separate attack in Banbridge has added to concern but remains under separate investigation.
Anyone with information is urged to contact police immediately. Even small details can make a difference
