Four Teens Arrested After Brutal Attack on Rescue Volunteer and His Dog in Bangor
Gang Launches Savage Assault on Volunteer and K9
Police have snapped up four teenagers following a shocking late-Friday attack in Bangor, County Down. A mob of 15 to 20 youths brutally punched and kicked a search and rescue volunteer and his loyal dog.
The violence erupted after a verbal spat, with the man pummeled in the face multiple times and his dog kicked without mercy.
Police Charges Laid Against Teen Thugs
The PSNI confirmed the arrest and charge details:
- A 13-year-old boy charged with assault occasioning actual bodily harm, affray, and animal cruelty.
- Two 15-year-old boys charged with assault causing actual bodily harm and affray, with one also accused of animal cruelty.
- A 16-year-old girl charged with affray and common assault.
Officers thanked the public for their help and warned more arrests are likely as the probe continues.
Community Outraged Over Rise in Violence
Locals and officials blasted the appalling attack. MLA Stephen Dunne called it “despicable”, condemning the surge in antisocial behaviour in Bangor city centre.
K9 Search and Rescue NI revealed the volunteer, Ryan Grey, and his dog Max were “viciously assaulted” while off duty. Ryan was treated in A&E, while Max required a vet check.
North Down MP Alex Easton slammed the savage assault: “Ryan Grey gives his time selflessly to help others. For him and Max, a highly trained search dog, to be attacked so brutally is shocking and deeply disturbing.”
From Earthquake Hero to Victim of Violence
Ryan and Max are renowned heroes, having played a key role in the 2023 Turkey earthquake rescue, with Max among the last dogs to find survivors of the disaster that claimed over 55,000 lives.
Paul Donley, charity secretary, said: “Ryan is dedicated to reuniting families. He tried to shield Max during the attack. It’s heartbreaking and infuriating that youths can run wild and attack anyone.”
The charity recently opened a new base in Bangor to boost its vital rescue work — now overshadowed by this brutal assault.
