Belfast victim Stephen Ogilvie has woken up from induced coma but faces challenges ahead, family say

The parents of the Belfast knife victim have said he may be left blinded by the attack that triggered fiery riots across the city.

Stephen Ogilvie has woken from his induced coma in hospital after being stabbed in the face and eyes, his family said on Wednesday.

His parents said on a GoFundMe: ‘On behalf of our family, we would like to sincerely thank everyone who has donated, shared this fundraiser, and kept Stephen in their thoughts and prayers.

‘We are relieved to share that Stephen is now out of his induced coma and continuing his recovery, although he still faces significant challenges ahead.

‘The funds raised will help provide Stephen with the equipment, support, and everyday items he may need as he adjusts to life following this attack.’

They added: ‘With the loss of sight in his left eye and the possibility of losing sight in his right eye, your generosity will make a real difference to his future quality of life.

‘We have been truly humbled by the kindness of so many people, many of whom have never met our family. Thank you all for your incredible support, and please continue to share the fundraiser with your friends and family if you can.’

Ogilvie, 44, lost an eye among other ‘significant injuries’ after he was allegedly attacked by 30-year-old Hadi Alodid on Monday.

The incident has sparked a wave of violent protests across Belfast, which have seen buses set on fire, homes deliberately targeted by thugs, and schools and businesses closed.

The ‘Hero of Belfast’ Maitui Mag Tighearnan, who stepped in with his son’s hurling bat to put an end to the attack, was true to his word and donated £10,000 to the victim.

Alodid has been remanded in custody after he appeared in court charged with attempted murder, possession of an article with a blade in a public place, and threats to kill.

Following the violence that lasted three nights there have been 35 arrests and 23 people charged.

The Police Service of Northern Ireland has defended its policing of disorder and said its officers had ‘undoubtedly saved lives’.

Assistant Chief Constable Ryan Henderson praised the work of officers, 42 of whom were injured during the disorder.

‘Within 24 hours of the attempted murder of the man in Kinnaird Avenue, police officers had arrested and charged a man in relation to this horrendous attack,’ he said.

‘That day, we extensively appealed for calm and to allow justice to take its course. Sadly, what we saw following was inexcusable lawlessness and disorder across Belfast and beyond.

‘Our officers worked under incredibly challenging conditions to calm disorder, protect lives and restore calm.

‘During the peak of the disorder, people intent on chaos came out to burn homes and cars with people fleeing.

‘Police officers were first to many of these scenes and helped people to safety, including a two-month-old baby.

‘Responsibility for the violence, criminal damage, intimidation and disorder lies squarely with those who came out on the streets.

‘Throughout this time, our officers have worked around the clock to protect life, prevent further harm and facilitate lawful, peaceful protests.’