A sectarian assault on a young Protestant has sparked disgust in Derry with local representatives warning someone could be killed if hate attacks continue.

DUP MLA Julie Middleton said a 14-year-old was attacked by a gang who were driving through Nelson Drive on Thursday.

“The victim was attacked by two older teenagers, sustaining injuries to his face. You can only imagine the trauma this has brought to the family. I would ask that we all send a clear message of support to this young man and to the family.

“This terrible assault is simply deplorable, not welcome and must be condemned by all,” said Mrs. Middleton.

Aldermen Darren Guy (UUP) and Niree McMorris (DUP).

placeholder image — Aldermen Darren Guy (UUP) and Niree McMorris (DUP).

Ulster Unionist Party Alderman Darren Guy said the attack took place against a backdrop of pre-arranged sectarian fights between groups of youths.

However, the victim of Thursday’s assault was an innocent member of the public seemingly targeted due to their perceived religion.

“This young man wouldn't be involved in all this tit-for-tat stuff,” said Ald. Guy. “He keeps himself well away from it and occupied with other things. Everybody in Nelson Drive knows this and the whole community is shocked. He is very shook up by the fact that this happened. This could have been a whole lot worse.”

Former deputy mayor Niree McMorris concurred that the incident was a random attack on a young teen who was not involved in any of the pre-arranged fights of recent months.

“All of these type of attacks are sinister and to be attacked because of your religion is absolutely disgusting.

“This is something that could turn very serious. We could end up that we are looking at a fatality if these attacks continue.

“They need to be condemned on both sides. It doesn't matter what religion you are, assault is assault. It is absolutely disgusting.

“Tensions are getting so high in our city that it will end up someone could get killed. We've seen it before in the city,” said the DUP Alderman.

Ald. Guy said: “With all these arranged attacks somebody innocent is going to get really hurt or worse.

"The young people involved in this on both sides don't see the bigger picture, they don't see the harm it can cause to communities, the division it brings.”

The ‘Journal’ has asked the PSNI for details of the reported incident.