Bushmills, Co Antrim, has been shaken by a gruesome incident that left a man with severe injuries after being nailed to a fence, prompting widespread outrage and calls for justice.
The vicious assault, which also involved the torching of two vehicles in the early hours of Sunday, marks the third violent attack in little over a year in the small village near the Giant’s Causeway.
The victim, a man in his twenties, was discovered with his hands nailed to a fence and sustained injuries to his nose. He was promptly treated at the hospital, where his condition was deemed not life-threatening.
Authorities are investigating the incident, linking graffiti found on nearby public toilets to the assault and arson that took place in Bushmills. The attack happened in a residential area close to holiday lets that were likely busy during the recent bank holiday weekend.
Describing the attack as “sinister,” a PSNI spokesperson emphasized the gravity of the man’s injuries, potentially life-changing according to medical assessments.
Politicians and community leaders have spoken out against the brutality of the assault, condemning the violence and expressing their solidarity with the victim. Alliance North Antrim MLA Sian Mulholland labeled the incident as “especially appalling,” echoing sentiments of shock and concern.
TUV leader Jim Allister also expressed dismay over the horrific attack, emphasizing the need for justice and a swift resolution to the investigation.
Authorities are urging any witnesses or individuals with relevant information, including dashcam footage, to come forward and assist in the ongoing investigation. The community is united in denouncing such acts of violence and standing together in support of the victim’s recovery.