A Derry man charged with stabbing a woman during a domestic dispute is held without bail amid public safety concerns.

A 50-year-old Derry man, Gerald Coyle, has been remanded in custody after being charged with malicious wounding, possessing a knife with intent to cause serious harm, and assault following a stabbing incident on December 27, 2025. Police responded to a home where a woman, reportedly covered in blood, said Coyle attacked her during a domestic dispute, allegedly throwing a Christmas tree and then stabbing her in the head and hands. He later chased two men who arrived, walked topless through the street covered in blood, and shouted at a pregnant woman before being restrained. Authorities noted Coyle has 66 prior convictions, including for violent offenses. His defense claimed he had a mental health episode and that the knife was a decorative gift. The court denied bail, citing public safety concerns, and Coyle is set to appear again on January 22.