Man left needing reconstructive surgery after Newtownabbey attack

By Adam Evans

An attack on a man in Newtownabbey has been described as "breathtakingly violent and wicked" by police.

Anthony MacMahon was left barely concious and needing reconstructive surgery after he was seriously assaulted in a car park on Longwood Road on Tuesday night.

Detectives have released CCTV of the 59-year-old in the hope someone may recognise him and it jogs the memory of any witnesses.

Detective Inspector Chris Millar said: "The injuries sustained by Mr McMahon are such that he was left unrecognisable to even his closest family members and will now have to undergo reconstructive surgery. His injuries are much more than 'serious', they are life changing.

"We are appealing for the assistance of the public in tracking down the vicious perpetrators of this brutal and sustained attack. We would like to hear from anyone who was in the Longwood Road area on Tuesday night. Whether you were just passing through, visiting the retail park or were there for any other reason, you may be able to help us.

"Did you see Anthony McMahon in the area on Tuesday night? We understand from family and friends that he is a well-known and well liked individual in the local area. We are issuing CCTV images of Anthony on the day he was attacked, wearing the same clothes he was found in, to help jog people’s memories.

"I cannot stress enough just how breathtakingly violent and wicked this assault was. Please call 101, quoting reference number 1360 15/08/17 if you have any information, no matter how small or seemingly insignificant. Help us identify the ruthless and cowardly criminal or criminals who carried out this vile attack."

Information can also be given anonymously to the Crimestoppers charity on 0800 555 111.