Two arrested over Scott Vineer attack

Detectives investigating the assault on the 17-year-old in the city in September 2012 have arrested two males, aged 23 and 25, on suspicion of attempted murder.

Scott, who has autism, was left for dead after being viciously assaulted in the Laganbank Road area of the city centre.

The Lisburn teenager was in hospital for six months, three of which were spent in a coma. He is now on the long road to recovery but has been left needing to use a wheelchair.

The two men have been released on police bail, pending further enquiries.

This brings the total number of arrests made in the case to three and Lagan Valley MLA Jonathan Craig has praised the police for continuing to focus on the case.

“The news that the PSNI, 16 months after this vicious attack, are still pursuing those who carried out this heinous crime sends a clear message out to the community and those responsible that the PSNI are leaving no stone unturned concerning the attack on Scott, who has been described as a ‘gentle giant’,” said Mr Craig.

Mr Craig, who is also a member of the Northern Ireland Policing Board, appealed once again to the public in Lisburn if they have any knowledge or information which may be of assistance to contact the PSNI.

“This assault on Scott sent shockwaves through the wider community and I know that the local autism group in Lisburn has been working closely with the parents and the PSNI to voice their concerns again and to make sure that the culprits are brought to justice for this horrendous crime,” added Mr Craig.

Police are continuing to appeal for information and would ask anyone who has any information to contact detectives in Lisburn on 0845 600 8000.

Alternatively, if someone would prefer to provide information without giving their name they can contact the Crimestoppers charity on 0800 555 111.