The parents of a Belfast stabbing victim have revealed their son could lose sight in both eyes as he continues his recovery from the attack that sparked days of violent disorder across Northern Ireland.

Stephen Ogilvie, 44, has now emerged from an induced coma following the incident and remains in hospital facing what his family describe as significant challenges ahead.

In an update shared through a fundraising page set up to support his recovery, Ogilvie’s parents thanked the public for their support and confirmed his condition had improved since being admitted to hospital.

“On behalf of our family, we would like to sincerely thank everyone who has donated, shared this fundraiser, and kept Stephen in their thoughts and prayers,” they said.

“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 revealed that Ogilvie has already lost sight in one eye and faces uncertainty over the future of the other.

“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,” they said.

The attack took place on Monday and left Ogilvie with serious facial injuries. A 30-year-old man, Hadi Alodid, has since appeared in court charged with attempted murder, possession of a bladed article in a public place and making threats to kill. He has been remanded in custody pending further proceedings.

The incident triggered several nights of unrest across Belfast and surrounding areas, with rioters setting vehicles alight, targeting homes and businesses and clashing with police. The disorder led to dozens of arrests and criminal charges as officers attempted to restore calm.

Among those praised during the aftermath was local man Maitui Mag Tighearnan, dubbed the “Hero of Belfast” after intervening to help stop the attack using his son’s hurling bat. He later donated £10,000 to support Ogilvie’s recovery.

The Police Service of Northern Ireland has defended its handling of the disorder, insisting officers prevented further loss of life during the violence that followed.

Assistant Chief Constable Ryan Henderson said officers had worked under exceptionally difficult conditions, with 42 police officers injured during the disturbances.

“Sadly, what we saw following was inexcusable lawlessness and disorder across Belfast and beyond,” he said.

“During the peak of the disorder, people intent on chaos came out to burn homes and cars with people fleeing. Police officers were first to many of these scenes and helped people to safety, including a two-month-old baby.”

For Ogilvie and his family, however, the focus remains on his recovery. While the news that he has regained consciousness has provided hope, the long-term impact of the injuries remains uncertain as doctors continue to assess the damage caused by the attack.