A taxi driver was left ‘battered and bruised’ with a suspected broken arm after he was assaulted in his car.
Police said the 56-year-old Asian man was the victim of a ‘vicious’ assault in Moore Street, off London Road, in Frenchwood, Preston.
The man, who lives in London Road but due to parking restrictions keeps his taxi within sight in nearby Moore Street, left his home shortly after 6pm on Friday.
He said he was sat in the Toyota Avensis in Moore Street getting ready for work when another Asian man burst into his vehicle.
The attacker repeatedly punched the man until he passed out.
The driver managed to get home at around 6.45pm, where his shocked son tended to his injuries.
His son went out to look for the attacker but was unable to find him.
The driver’s wife called an ambulance and paramedics treated her husband at the scene before taking him to Royal Preston Hospital for further treatment.
Police said the victim was still in hospital yesterday.
He told officers: “I left my home about 6.15pm.
“I crossed the road to my car and nothing seemed out of place or out of the ordinary.
“I got in my car and as I usually do I sit in my car until the engine has warmed up before I set off.
“Immediately after starting the car I was suddenly punched.
“I was punched numerous times, so much that I lost consciousness.
“I can’t remember but I must have been helped to cross the road back home.
“I have an injury to my shoulder and I’ve been told I have a broken arm.”
He said he had only caught a glimpse of his attacker, who he described as an Asian man.
He said the offender was wearing a big black coat or jacket.
Det Sgt John Crichton, of Preston CID, said the victim had recalled there were people around in the street at the time of the incident, and that there may have been witnesses who could assist the police with their investigation.
However, he said house-to-house enquiries had so far proved fruitless.
Det Sgt Crichton said: “This was a vicious assault.
“The victim’s face was left battered and bruised.
“He has swollen eyes, multiple bruises to either side of his face and bruising on top of his head, which suggests he may have been hit with something.
“He said he was shocked and in great pain.
“There was quite a bit of blood in the car and on the outside of the car down the side, which may have been when he got out of the vehicle.
“This could have been a robbery and we will search the car to see if any money or any items have been stolen.”
If you witnessed the incident or have any information about the attack that could help police, call 101.
Alternatively contact Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111, or online at www.crimestoppers-uk.org.
No personal details are taken, information is not traced or recorded and you will not have to go to court.
Comments