Witnesses sought after Rathcoole incident leaves man in critical condition

The man in his 60s was found lying on the floor of his home in the Rathcoole Drive area of Newtownabbey on Wednesday evening (June 3).

Detailing the incident, Detective Sergeant Perks said: “We were contacted by Northern Ireland Ambulance Service, just after 7pm on Wednesday, who requested our attendance.

“The male occupant, who was found lying on the floor, was treated by paramedics at the scene and later transported to hospital, where he remains in a critical condition.

“The man, aged in his 60s, has sustained extensive bruising to his head, chest, abdomen and limbs.”

Speaking to the Times, Macedon UUP representative, Cllr Robert Foster said: “I know the victim personally and he is a very quiet and unassuming gentleman. Police enquiries are still ongoing but it would appear he has been the victim of a vicious assault in his own home and has suffered serious injuries which I totally condemn as does the entire community.

“The community is very tight knit in Rathcoole and we are all shocked that this has happened in the estate. There have been numerous incidents of attempted break-ins in recent weeks in the area and I have spoken with local PSNI officers to increase patrols in the area.

“If anyone has any information on this incident I urge them to contact the PSNI and I also urge residents to ensure their properties are secure and to report any suspicious activity to the PSNI.”

Police are appealing to anyone with information to contact officers on 101, quoting reference number 1841 of 03/06/20.

Information can also be provided anonymously to Crimestoppers on 0800555111.

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