Elderly Telford man assaulted as thieves attempt to steal car
Police are appealing for information after an elderly man was assaulted by thieves as they tried to steal his car.
The man – aged in his 80’s – left the Hare and Hounds Pub on Holyhead Road in Oakengates at around 11.30pm when the
incident happened on Thursday.
As the man left the pub via the back door he walked towards his car, an Audi, which was parked on the car park.
As he opened the car door, two people came running towards him.
One of the suspects told the man to hand over his keys. When he refused, he punched the victim to his face, causing him to fall backwards to the ground. He was then kicked to the back and chest.
A member of staff from the pub heard a disturbance and went outside to investigate. At this point the offenders ran off.
The man, who managed to keep hold of his car keys, went home and police were alerted the following day.
Detective Constable Stephen Clark, who is investigating the matter, said: “The man suffered cuts and bruises to his face and body and, despite being shaken up by what happened, drove home.
“He told family members and friends what took place and a friend called police the next day.
“We attended the man’s address and he is extremely upset by what happened. It was fortunate that a member of staff intervened and chased the suspects away.
“This is a nasty incident and we are carrying out a number of enquiries to catch those responsible.
“We need help from members of the public and would urge anyone who saw anything suspicious on the night in question to come forward.
“Did you see two men acting suspiciously in the area at the time or did you see two men running in the direction of the Greyhound Roundabout shortly after the incident at around 11.30pm? If you have any information at all, please come and
speak to us.”
One of the offenders is described a white male, aged in his early teens, wearing dark coloured clothing and a hooded top.
The second offender is described as around 4ft 6ins tall and of average build.
Information should be passed to Telford Police on 0300 333 3000 or the anonymous Crimestoppers line on 0800 555111.
