Man charged over attempted car hijacking with needle

Steven McCabe, 20, allegedly targeted the motorist as she returned to her Renault Clio at a car park in Belfast’s Bankmore Street on Monday evening.

Police said the attacker got into the vehicle with the keys, but was prevented from driving off by the woman and members of the public.

McCabe, of Great Victoria Street in the city, appeared before Belfast Magistrates’ Court charged with hijacking.

He faces two further counts of criminal damage to a CD and possession of an offensive weapon, namely a hypodermic needle, with intent to commit hijacking.

The accused made no comment after the alleged offences were put to him.

An investigating policewoman said she could connect him to the three charges.

Defence solicitor Damien Trainor put no questions to the officer during the brief hearing.

Mr Trainor also confirmed his client was not seeking bail.

Remanding McCabe in custody, District Judge Fiona Bagnall ordered him to appear again by video-link on May 24.