A man from Rickmansworth was attacked and injured so badly that he had to be placed in an induced coma.

The victim, who was in his 50s, was assaulted by another man near the back of Poundland in King Harry Street, Hemel Hempstead.

He was initially able to run away and seek help from police, but after attending hospital it emerged he had serious injuries including a punctured lung and broken ribs.

The victim had to be placed in a coma but is now in a stable condition and slowly recovering, police said.

A 24-year-old man from Hemel Hempstead has been arrested in connection with the attack and released on bail while enquiries continue.

Following the attack at around 6.30am on Saturday, September 4, detective constable James MacPherson urged anyone with information to come forward.

“A review of CCTV has shown that several vehicles drove past at the time of the incident,” he continued.

“If you were in the area around the time and have information which could assist us please get in touch.

“We’re particularly keen to hear from anyone who may have dash cam fitted to their vehicle.”

Information can be reported via non-emergency number 101, or to Crimestoppers anonymously on 08500 555111.

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