Man accused of attempting to murder police officer granted bail

Noel David Quigley, of Celandine Court, is accused of attempting to murder the officer on April 17.

The defendant was shot by another police officer during the alleged incident in his Celandine Court home.

Derry Magistrate’s Court heard Quigley contacted police and said he intended to harm himself.

Officers attended his home and allegedly found the 42-year-old in the living room holding a large kitchen knife in each hand.

It is alleged Quigley attempted to harm himself and in an ensuing struggle with police he was sprayed with incapacitant spray and then shot.

The court heard allegations that one of the officer sustained wounds to his head, face and forearm during the incident.

During police interview, Quigley denied intentionally attacking police and claimed he panicked after the spray had been used on him.

Opposing bail, an investigating officer said police have concerns Quigley poses a risk to himself, to the public and to police officers.

He added that the defendant has 37 previous convictions, including fifteen previous for assaulting police.

Defence counsel Eoghan Devlin said his client rejects the narrative presented by the police.

The barrister told the court the 42-year-old was shot in the arm during the incident, and the bullet travelled through his chest before touching a lung and going out his back, breaking three ribs.

He said his client requires further medical attention in relation to the bullet wound he sustained.

The barrister added that a structured care plan was available for Quigley and his family were willing to ensure it was implemented.

Deputy District Judge Liam McStay granted bail subject to a number of conditions, including a curfew, an electronic tag and a ban on consuming alcohol.

Quigley must also follow the advice of medical practitioners.