Police are appealing for public assistance after an 82-year-old man was allegedly assaulted twice in Ferntree Gully last month, including while he was lying on the ground.
Investigators have been told the Ferntree Gully man was walking along the Blind Creek Trail between Bond Street and Lewis Road about 1.30 pm on Monday, 6 July when he called out to a teenager riding an electric scooter who he believed was travelling too fast.
Police allege the teenager then verbally abused the man before striking him multiple times to the face and head.
The force of the alleged attack caused the 82-year-old to fall to the ground.
Investigators have been told the alleged offender stood beside the victim while he was on the ground and struck him again after he managed to get back to his feet.
The man fell for a second time.
Police said the alleged offender then took photographs of the victim while he was lying on the ground.
Witnesses are understood to have helped the injured man as the teenager left the area on an orange and black electric scooter.
A short time later, police allege the same teenager again attacked the 82-year-old, this time striking him from behind on Rankin Road.
The victim was taken to hospital with non-life-threatening injuries.
He suffered significant bruising and lacerations to his face as well as bleeding.
Investigators have now released images of a male they believe may be able to assist with their enquiries.
He is described as being aged between 16 and 18, with a skinny build and blond-coloured hair.
Police said he was wearing dark-coloured clothing and a motorcycle helmet at the time of the incident.
Anyone who witnessed the alleged assault, has CCTV or dashcam footage, or has other information that could assist investigators is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or make a confidential report online.
Police investigations remain ongoing.
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