Grandfather 'brain dead' after Christmas night bashing by gang of youths

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This was published 4 years ago

Grandfather 'brain dead' after Christmas night bashing by gang of youths

By Zach Hope

A grandfather has reportedly been left "brain dead" in hospital after he was bashed unconscious in front of his family on Christmas night by a gang of youths armed with baseball bats and metal bars.

Anthony Clark was bashed outside his home on Esther Crescent in Mooroolbark, just before 11pm, in an incident police believe may have involved as many as eight people.

The man's brother-in-law, Mark, told 3AW the family was outside their home when they were attacked.

“They knocked my sister out, and had my niece – from what I understand – by the hair,” he said.

One of his family members, a 25-year-old woman, managed to lock herself inside the home with her two-month-old baby and a toddler, according to 3AW.

Mark said the grandfather remained in hospital in a coma and the family feared he would not survive.

“He’s in intensive care – he’s brain dead – it’s heartbreaking,” he said.

Police said they arrested an 18-year-old Mooroolbark man at the scene, but he has since been released pending further inquiries.

"The exact circumstances surrounding the incident are yet to be established and an investigation is ongoing," police said.

Mark said he had been told the youths attacked the man he described as a "gentle giant" as the family was saying goodbye in the driveway.

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"They waved off family, as you do on Christmas ... we had a beautiful day and he was just being Pop with his grandchildren," Mark said.

"They came from down the bottom of the street and I believe it happened pretty quickly... my sister said she wished them merry Christmas, that's it."

Mark told 3AW family members were flying in from Ireland and Canada to say goodbye.

A 50-year-old woman was also taken to hospital, but her injuries were not life-threatening.

Anyone who witnessed the incident or has information is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or make a confidential report at www.crimestoppersvic.com.au.

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