North Belfast Knife Attack Victim Stephen Ogilvie Set to Leave Hospital

Stephen Ogilvie, who was critically injured in a knife attack in North Belfast two months ago, is preparing to be discharged from hospital within the next week to begin the next stage of his recovery in rehabilitation.

The 44-year-old was attacked on Kinnaird Avenue on Monday, June 8, sustaining severe knife wounds to his face, neck, and back. Stephen suffered life-altering injuries, including the loss of his left eye and eye socket, and required surgery to rebuild his nose. He was placed in a coma before being moved out of intensive care in late June, while his family continues to monitor the sight in his right eye.

In an update shared on an online fundraiser set up to aid his journey, Stephen's father expressed deep gratitude for the incredible outpouring of generosity from the public. Over 1,300 donors have contributed more than £40,000 so far.

Speaking about the upcoming milestone, his father said: "We are waiting for Stephen to be discharged from hospital and go to rehab, hopefully this will be within the next week or so. Again I would like to thank you all for all the support and kindness that you have shown us all as a family. I will keep you all updated when Stephen gets moved. This is where all the hard work starts and with all the support and love sent has really lifted him up. Thank you everyone."

A 30-year-old man from Duncairn Avenue has been charged with attempted murder, threats to kill an NHS radiographer on the same day, and possession of a knife.

Footage of the attack had circulated online and sparked days of disorder and racist violence across parts of Belfast and Northern Ireland, during which homes and businesses of migrant families were targeted. Stephen's family strongly condemned the unrest at the time, stating clearly that the violence was not carried out in his name.