Man struck with hammers while in bed and subjected to sectarian abuse in Co Antrim

By Q Radio News

A man has been attacked by a gang of men armed with hammers as he lay in his bed in Co Antrim. 

Three masked intruders gained entry to the property on Crosshill View in Kells shortly before 1am this morning. 

The 35-year-old victim was struck and legs and subjected to sectarian abuse.

Police also detected remnants of petrol bombs that failed to ignite. 

Detective Sergeant Crothers said: "Shortly before 1am three masked men armed with hammers entered a property on Crosshill View and began assaulting a man as he lay in bed. 

“The 35-year-old victim was struck a number of times with the hammer about the legs and he was subjected to sectarian slurs.

"Damage was also caused to items in the bedroom and the living room window was smashed. 

“Outside the property, the windows of a car were smashed and the remnants of two petrol bombs were located, however it appeared the devices had not ignited.

"The men have been described as being of medium to well build, aged in their 30s, and spoke with local accents. 

"All three were wearing black face masks.

"Detectives are appealing to anyone who was in the area at the time, or may have witnessed any suspicious activity, to call 101 and quote reference number 81 of 02/07/21."