The family of a Belfast man whose stabbing triggered three nights of violent unrest across the city have revealed he could lose sight in both eyes as he continues his recovery in hospital.
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Stephen Ogilvie, 44, has emerged from an induced coma after suffering severe injuries in the attack, which allegedly left him with the loss of sight in one eye and the possibility of losing vision in the other. His parents shared the update on a fundraising page GoFundMe as cited by The Metro, thanking members of the public for their donations.
"We are relieved to share that Stephen is now out of his induced coma and continuing his recovery, although he still faces significant challenges ahead," the family said.
They added that funds raised would help provide equipment, support and essential items as he adapts to life after the attack.
"With the loss of sight in his left eye and the possibility of losing sight in his right eye, your generosity will make a real difference to his future quality of life," the statement said.
Ogilvie sustained what his family described as significant injuries after he was stabbed in the face and eyes on Monday. Police allege he was attacked by 30-year-old Hadi Alodid, who has since been remanded in custody.
Alodid appeared in court charged with attempted murder, possession of an article with a blade in a public place and making threats to kill.
The stabbing sparked widespread disorder across Belfast, with violence continuing for three consecutive nights. During the unrest, buses were set alight, homes were targeted, and some schools and businesses were forced to close.
One of those credited with intervening during the attack, Maitui Mag Tighearnan, who reportedly used his son's hurling bat to stop the assault, donated £10,000 to support Ogilvie's recovery.
