NI prisoner captured but one still on the run

A self-confessed murderer on the loose after a daring courthouse break-out with another man was captured tonight.

David Albert Taggart, 22, from Belfast, was arrested following a police operation at a house in the Ormeau area of the city.

Taggart had been on the loose since he escaped from Downpatrick Court, Co Down, on Thursday with Ian Oliver Carlin, 31, from Ardglass. Carlin was tonight still on the run, but he was urged to give himself up.

In a direct appeal, Down District Commander Chief Superintendent Robert Robinson said: “Ian, I would urge you to make contact with police, either through your solicitor, a family member or directly yourself, but please come forward now.”

The pair had forced their way out of the building and hijacked a Volkswagen Polo, pulling a woman and her baby from the car.

Earlier today a third man allegedly involved in the plot appeared back in the dock.

Colin Patrick Joseph O’Brien, 31, was charged with three offences, including escaping lawful custody and causing grievous bodily harm to a police officer.

O’Brien, whose address was given as care of Maghaberry Prison, had been in the court when the escape occurred.

Taggart was due to appear at the court on motoring offences. He was awaiting sentencing for the murder of retired Ulster Museum curator Lawrence Flanagan in April 2001, having already admitted the killing.

Carlin was facing charges of robbery, assault and unlawful imprisonment. Both men were described as extremely dangerous by police who had launched a massive manhunt.

Detectives believe O’Brien, who faced similar charges to Carlin, was prevented from escaping when they fled.

He denied assaulting the police officer and trying to escape when he appeared before magistrates in Newtownards, Co Down.

He was remanded in custody to appear again at Downpatrick Court via video link from jail on May 15.