Man Attacked During Aggravated Burglary In Bushmills

A man, aged in his 60s, has been attacked during an aggravated burglary in Bushmills, Co Antrim.

The assault occurred at a house in the Elmwood Park area just after 11.30pm on Thursday evening, 09 March.

Detective Inspector Finlay said: ”The men were reported to have ordered the male occupant to lie on the bed, before holding a handgun to his legs and making several attempts to fire the gun, without success.

"They then reportedly assaulted the victim, who is aged in his 60s, with what are believed to have been iron bars and a sledgehammer. As a result, he sustained a head injury, and was subsequently taken to hospital for treatment. At this time, it is not believed that his injuries are life threatening.

"A second occupant who was inside property at the time of the incident - a women in her 80s- also sustained an injury to her arm.

"The suspects, who were said to have been dressed in dark coloured clothing, then reportedly fled the scene on foot.

"This was a terrifying experience for the occupants of the property and our investigation is now underway to establish what happened, who was involved, and a motive."

Police are appealing for anyone with information to contact them.