Vandals Smash Historic Train Carriages at Downpatrick Railway
Shocking vandalism hit the Downpatrick and County Down Railway on Friday, 20 September 2024. A gang of youths stormed the site, smashing windows and breaking doors on the cherished steam train carriages. The heritage railway is now pleading for the public’s help to track down the offenders.
Brick Through the Window and Broken Doors
The damage unfolded around 3.30pm when several youths illegally entered the railway premises. Witnesses and security footage reveal the troublemakers chucking a brick through a carriage window before forcing entry by smashing a door. Partial descriptions and images of two suspects have been released by police, who are actively investigating.
Historic Attraction Left Devastated
The railway’s chairman slammed the attack as “senseless,” highlighting the blow to local heritage and the popular tourist attraction. Staff and volunteers, who work tirelessly to preserve the site, are left devastated by the deliberate act of destruction.
Police Urge Public to Speak Up
Police are appealing for anyone with information or who witnessed suspicious behaviour around the railway between 3pm and 4pm on that Friday to come forward. You can report details to the police on 101 quoting crime reference CC2024092100642.
This railway is more than just a tourist spot—it’s a living museum of local rail history. The community hopes the vandals responsible will soon be caught and punished.
