Batman and 'Ram Man' are heroes who strive to keep their identities secret. Photo (right) / Greg Bowker
The man who badly damaged his Toyota when he rammed his attackers' getaway car is stunned by the generosity of the public who have offered to help him get back on the road.
Letters of support and offers of cash and free car repairs came flooding in yesterday
after the incident featured on the front page of the Herald.
"I'm quite amazed about it," he said last night. "It really shows you that people just want to fix some of these things that are happening, which is really good."
But he wants to remain anonymous, and joked: "I like Batman stories."
The 44-year-old from East Auckland had just finished grocery shopping at New World in Botany when four teens approached him on Tuesday night.
The youths beat him about the head, kicked him in the ribs and stole his wallet and groceries before attempting to flee in a stolen Subaru.
Fuelled by rage and determination, the man climbed into his own car and rammed the side of the Subaru.
As he made his way to the nearest petrol station to call the police, he came across the Subaru parked near another supermarket, so he rammed it again from the other side, causing enough damage that the youths were forced to flee on foot.
Police caught four 16-year-olds soon after. They are now facing charges.
Dozens of readers sympathised with the man's actions, some saying he deserved a medal.
However, he did not want to be identified for fear of retribution on his family.
The man's car was badly damaged during the ramming and comments about his insurance policy not covering the damage prompted more than 40 people to offer money, free repair work and rental cars yesterday.
Parts Connection Manurewa Car Spares customer relations spokesman Peter Gormly said his company had offered to provide all the parts, and Austin Autobody Repairs and Refinishes would do the panelwork.
* Readers have asked if a fund has been established for the muggers' victim. He appreciates the support but does not seek any further help.
