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Attack on Belfast’s “Big Fish” Sculpture Leaves Iconic Landmark Damaged
By Drooid · · How we work
The Attack on the “Big Fish” Sculpture
In the early hours of Sunday, police received a report at about 12:30 a.m. that someone was damaging the “Big Fish” sculpture on Donegall Quay. Officers arriving on the scene observed that the left eye of the 10-metre ceramic fish had been smashed, creating a large hole with broken tile and glass scattered on the pavement. A 44-year-old man was located nearby and arrested on suspicion of criminal damage and possession of an offensive weapon in a public place. He remains in police custody.
Background of the Landmark
The “Big Fish,” also known as the Salmon of Knowledge, was created by artist John Kindness in 1999 to celebrate the regeneration of the River Lagan. The sculpture has become one of Belfast’s most-photographed tourist attractions and a symbol of the city’s cultural revitalisation.
Police and Volunteer Response
A spokesperson for the Police Service of Northern Ireland (PSNI) confirmed that officers attended the location promptly after the 12:30 a.m. report and identified the damage to the sculpture’s left eye. The PSNI noted the arrest of the 44-year-old suspect. Members of the Community Rescue Service (CRS) Safety Patrol, a volunteer-run search and rescue charity, intervened when they saw the man attacking the sculpture with a sledgehammer. CRS regional commander Sean McCarry said the swift action of the Safety Patrol prevented further damage and potential injury to the public.
Legal Proceedings
The arrested individual has been charged with criminal damage and possession of an offensive weapon in a public place. He is scheduled to appear before Belfast Magistrates’ Court on the following Monday.
Impact and Restoration Efforts
Photographs released after the incident show a conspicuous hole where the fish’s eye once was. CRS volunteers began patching the damaged area shortly after the police secured the scene, aiming to restore the sculpture’s appearance while investigations continue. The incident has raised concerns about the protection of public artworks and the role of community volunteers in safeguarding cultural landmarks.