Man arrested after allegedly ramming police vehicle and fleeing in Galway

A 35-year-old man faces multiple charges after allegedly ramming a police vehicle during a traffic stop in Galway on Saturday night.

Operational Patrol Services officers conducted a traffic stop on Ashgrove Drive at approximately 10:35 p.m. on Oct. 24, 2026.

Police say the driver provided a false name before reversing his vehicle into the police cruiser and fleeing the scene, nearly striking officers in the process.

A short time later, officers responded to a vehicle fire in the area and determined the vehicle was the same one involved in the earlier incident.

Police searched the area using a police service dog, drones and officers on foot before locating the suspect hiding nearby.

The 35-year-old was arrested and faces 12 charges, including flight from police, resisting or obstructing a peace officer, dangerous operation of a conveyance, public mischief, arson, assaulting a peace officer, failing to stop at the scene of an accident, assault with a weapon, and three counts of failing to comply with a release order.

He also faces charges under the Highway Traffic Act for failing to notify the registrar of a change in vehicle ownership, operating without valid insurance and driving while suspended or disqualified.

The accused was taken to the city lockup, where he awaits a court appearance.