Commenting on the vehicular incident which occurred as violence flared in the aftermath of an Orange Order parade, police released a statement detailing events, saying: "[We are dealing] with a serious incident at Ardoyne involving pedestrians and a male driver."
According to reports, the 16-year-old was hit by the vehicle as it reversed into gathered crowds outside a parade of shops in the predominantly Catholic and Irish Nationalist district in north Belfast.
It is understood that police immediately responded and administered first aid to the victim while the driver of the vehicle was placed under arrest.
Howevere, in a desperate effort to free the trapped teen in order to administer treatment, a number of police officers had to work together to lift the vehicle thereby allowing the girl to be transferred to hospital.
Commenting on the violent nature of the incident and updating media on the girl's condition, Holy Cross parish priest, Fr. Gary Donegan said: "If you've no reason to be here, leave the area, We've already seen this almost tragic incident that could have resulted in a fatality. She's able to move her legs, thankfully."
Echoing the priest's call for calm, Sinn Féin's Gerry Kelly said: "This situation should de-escalate and people should go home. Most people are disappointed and angry at what has happened.".
It has been established that the teenage girl's injuries are not said to be life-threatening and an investigation into the incident is currently underway.
