MIDNIGHT ASSAULT

Manawatu Standard, Volume LIII, Issue 63, 10 February 1933, Page 12

MIDNIGHT ASSAULT

MAN STRUCK ON HEAD. With robbery as the probable motive, an assault was made early yesterday morning, shortly after midnight, upon Mr J. Vickerstnff just as ho was about to enter the. gate of his home adjoining the Showgrounds in Cuba Street. He was struck a heavy blow on the _ head, but when he went to grapple with his assailant the latter fled.

Mr Vickerstaff, who is a billiard saloon proprietor, said he was carrying the day’s takings from his business. He talked with a friend on the corner of Wnldegrave Street for a few minutes, and then proceeded towards his residence, a little over 100 yards distant. On the way he heard footsteps about 20 feet behind him, and steadily overtaking him, but took no notice. However, just as he reached his gate and turned from the footpath to unlatch it, his assailant drew level and struck him a violent blow on the head with a heavy, blunt instrument. Reeling from tho blow, Mr Vickerstaff called for help. Though dizzy, he went to grapple with his attacker, but the latter, alarmed by the call for assistance, made off, and disappeared through a vacant section on the other sido of Cuba Street.

Subsequently Mr Vickerstaff had to receive medical attention, and seven stitches were inserted in the wound on his head.