Falls Park: Teenager in serious condition in hospital after being beaten unconscious in west Belfast

The 15-year-old was beaten unconscious in Falls Park on Saturday around 9:20 p.m. after being attacked by a number of youths in the area.

Police responded less than a minute after receiving a report of the incident as it was happening.

PSNI Inspector Róisín Brown said further altercations broke out among a large group of young people as officers provided first aid to the victim who was then rushed to hospital.

“Additional police resources were deployed in the park and the young people were finally dispersed from the area,” she added.

“Police are very aware of the ongoing problems in Falls Park and are committed to finding solutions for the entire community.

“We want young people to come together and enjoy the park responsibly, but this type of violence is unacceptable.

“Local residents also have the right to feel safe where they live. Those who engage in anti-social behavior and other forms of criminality only harm their own communities, and unfortunately sometimes themselves. I am again appealing to parents and guardians to find out where your young people are.

Ms Brown described the environment the police were working in as “very hostile” but promised officers would continue to carry out additional patrols in west Belfast.

“Anyone who witnesses anti-social or criminal behavior should contact police on 101 so we can respond,” she said.

“We would also ask parents and guardians to talk to their young people and find out where they are in order to prevent them from engaging in behavior that could lead to injury or a criminal record.