Police appeal after man seriously assaulted in Edendale, Southland

Police are appealing for information after a man was lured out of his home and seriously assaulted on the pretence of helping a woman with a flat tyre.

Police said they responded to the incident in the small Southland town of Edendale at around 10.55pm on Saturday.

A woman had knocked on the victim’s door, saying she had a flat tyre and needed help.

The victim, a man in his 50s, walked with the woman to the corner of Melvin St and Turner St to assist her before he was accosted by a man and seriously assaulted.

During the assault, the offender also attempted to restrain the victim by tying his hands behind his back.

The victim suffered serious injuries in the assault, including a fractured eye socket and broken nose.

Police said inquiries are under way to establish the identity of the man and woman involved in this incident, turning to Edendale residents for help.

They said following the assault the victim saw an SUV leaving the area at speed.

“We believe it is likely the man and woman were in this SUV,” they said.

“To help us locate this vehicle, we would like to hear from any residents who have street-facing security cameras on Turner St, Melvin St, Seawood Rd or Ferry Rd, and who may have captured footage of the vehicle on Saturday night.”

“We would also like to speak to anyone who saw an SUV in the Edendale township between 10pm and midnight, or anyone with other information which could assist our enquiries.

“If you can help, please contact Police via 105, quoting file number 251116/4977.”

Information can also be provided anonymously via Crime Stoppers on 0800 555 111.