Man's 'agony' after firework attack
A Derry father-of-four says he is "in absolute agony" after being hit by a firework hurled at him from a passing car.
The rocket set fire to his coat and burned right through to his skin, leaving him needing hospital treatment for burns to his shoulder.
The incident occurred in the early hours of Monday morning as the man, who doesn’t wish to be named, was walking along the “by-wash” which links Creggan and Hazelbank.
The man, from the Ballymagroarty area of Derry, told ‘FN’: “I was walking on my own, minding my own business, when I thought I heard a car slowing down. Next thing I knew, this thing just came whistling out of nowhere and hit me on the shoulder. When I saw the flames, I just hit the deck, rolling around on the wet ground to try to put the flames out.”
Although he didn’t see who was responsible for throwing the device, the man said he heard someone shout verbal abuse just as the rocket hit him. The firework burned right through his coat, leaving him with burns on his back and collarbone.
“The doctor said I could have been maimed for life. I suppose I am lucky it wasn’t worse. But I’m in absolute agony and struggling to do everything like dress myself and eat with one arm. Something as simple as making a cup of tea is a nightmare.”
With Hallowe’en celebrations in the city this evening, the injured man issued a stark warning: “If you see fireworks being used indiscriminately, contact the police and tell them. If you don’t, someone could be badly hurt or killed. Fireworks, legal or illegal, are not toys and are lethal in the wrong hands, so be vigilant. Also, look out for elderly people in the community as they are particularly vulnerable.”
Speaking directly to those responsible for the attack, he added: “Think twice before throwing things at people. How would you like it if your own mum, sister or brother was hurt or even killed by a rocket? What happened to me will hopefully be a warning to people.”
Police are appealing for information about the incident and anyone who can help to identify the occupants of the car is asked to contact police at Strand Road. The number to call is 0845 600 8000.
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Weather for Derry
Sunday 27 May 2012
Today
Sunny
Temperature: 14 C to 24 C
Wind Speed: 13 mph
Wind direction: East
Tomorrow
Sunny spells
Temperature: 12 C to 23 C
Wind Speed: 13 mph
Wind direction: South east
