Man arrested after crossbow fired at police during stand-off

A 40-year-old man has been arrested after a crossbow was fired at police during a four-hour stand-off in Kilkeel, County Down.

Police were called to Moorfield Court at about 21:00 BST on Sunday after reports that a man in a balaclava was on the street threatening residents.

When they arrived, crews were threatened with a large sword and crossbow bolts were fired at police. Police said the bolts narrowly missed its officers during a "sustained attack".

Police said they deployed taser devices and baton rounds during the incident. A man was later detained on suspicion of a range of offences including attempted murder.

Supt Lynne Corbett commended the officers for their bravery and professionalism.

"The ability to hold your nerve, remain calm and prioritise the safety of not only the public but also the suspect, in the face of continuous potentially life-threatening attack, is something that should not be underestimated," he said.

Corbett added that the man received an appropriate medical review after the incident and will be questioned on suspicion of a number of offences including attempted murder, making threats to kill and possession of an offensive weapon.

"I would also like to express my thanks to local residents for the co-operation shown whilst we worked to bring the situation to a safe conclusion," he said.

The PSNI have asked for anyone with information to contact them.