UMVA has learned that a heroic figure, Maitie Mag Toghearnan, has come forward as the man who bravely confronted an attacker in Belfast last night, saving the victim's life.
Footage of the incident, posted online, appears to show a knifeman pinning the victim to the ground before stabbing him multiple times, a gruesome scene that has left the community in shock.
A fundraiser was set up for Maitie, with Niall Donnan, the creator, saying he was moved to act after seeing the video, which he could only bear to watch for a few seconds. He praised Maitie's bravery, saying he deserves recognition for his selfless actions.
Maitie himself has been responding to social media comments, humbly deflecting praise and joking about his photo, while the victim, a man in his 40s, remains in serious condition in hospital with significant injuries to his eyes and serious slash wounds to his back and face.
The police have arrested a suspect, understood to be from Sudan, at the scene on suspicion of attempted murder, and a kitchen knife was found nearby. The suspect is believed to have entered Northern Ireland via Dublin and claimed asylum in February 2023.
The Prime Minister has condemned the attack, saying it was "sickening" and that he has no tolerance for such violence on the streets. He praised Maitie and others who intervened, saying they showed remarkable bravery and selflessness.
The community is rallying around Maitie, with his fundraiser going viral and many praising his heroism. The incident has also highlighted the importance of looking out for one another and the value of human connection in times of need.
The scene outside the apartment complex where the attack took place remains cordoned off, with police markers visible on the ground. The victim's condition is still serious, but Maitie's actions have given him a chance to recover.
