Rescue Volunteer and Search Dog Injured in Bangor Assault

A K9 Search & Rescue NI volunteer and his trained dog were injured during an alleged assault involving a large group of youths in Bangor on Friday evening. Ryan Gray suffered facial injuries and required hospital treatment, while search dog Max was also attacked. Police are investigating and appealing for information.

Search Volunteer and Dog Injured in Bangor Assault

A Bangor assault on rescue volunteer and search dog is being investigated after a K9 Search & Rescue NI team member and his trained dog were both injured during an incident in County Down.

Ryan Gray, founder of K9 Search & Rescue NI, was walking his dog Max through Bangor on Friday evening when the pair were allegedly attacked by a group of young people.

The incident has sparked widespread concern across Northern Ireland due to the pair’s role in life-saving rescue missions.

What Happened in Bangor?

According to police, officers received a report of an ongoing altercation in Bangor High Street at around 7:50pm on Friday.

Police stated that following a verbal exchange with approximately 15 to 20 youths, the man was punched multiple times.

His dog was also reportedly kicked during the incident.

When officers arrived, a number of young people fled the scene, most wearing dark clothing.

Injuries to Ryan Gray and Max

K9 Search & Rescue NI secretary Paul Donley described the attack as “vicious”.

Ryan Gray suffered serious facial injuries and attended hospital for treatment. Meanwhile, Max, the trained search dog, is expected to be examined by a vet.

Donley said the dog appeared shaken and raised concerns about how the attack could affect him going forward.

Who Are Ryan Gray and Max?

The Bangor assault on rescue volunteer and search dog has drawn particular attention due to the work carried out by both Gray and Max.

They are part of K9 Search & Rescue NI, a voluntary organisation involved in emergency response efforts.

Learn more about similar rescue efforts: https://www.redcross.org.uk

In 2023, Gray and Max travelled to Adana, Turkey, following the devastating earthquake that struck Turkey and Syria.

👉 2023 Turkey–Syria earthquake

More than 55,000 people lost their lives, and Max played a role in locating survivors.

According to Donley, Max was one of the final dogs involved in finding a survivor during the mission.

Since then, the pair have supported search operations across:

• Ireland
• England
• Spain

Charity Reacts to the Attack

Paul Donley said the incident was deeply upsetting, particularly given Ryan Gray’s dedication to helping others.

He confirmed that Gray attempted to protect Max during the attack.

The charity had recently opened a new base in Bangor, making the timing of the incident especially difficult.

Donley expressed anger that such an attack could happen in a public area involving a large group of youths.

Police Appeal for Information

Police are continuing enquiries into the Bangor assault on rescue volunteer and search dog.

Anyone with information is asked to contact police:

Call 101
Report online: https://www.psni.police.uk/report

You can also provide information anonymously via:

Crimestoppers: https://crimestoppers-uk.org

Why This Story Has Struck a Nerve

This case has resonated strongly with the public as it involves not only an alleged assault on a volunteer, but also on a trained rescue dog.

Search and rescue teams play a critical role in emergency response, often risking their own safety to help others.

Incidents like this highlight concerns around public safety and youth-related violence.