Detectives have launched an investigation into a hate crime in Blyth where two disabled men were attacked by a gang of teenagers.
The men, aged 25 and 24, were walking through an estate between Ingram Drive and Ford Drive on Saturday evening when they were approached by a group of teenagers.
One of the men is autistic and the other is partially deaf and the group of teenagers, who they did not know, began to verbally abuse them.
The group then launched an attack on the duo as they were making their way towards the Isabella Community Centre.
They punched and kicked the victims and threw ceramic plant pots at them before managing to get to safety.
It is believed the attack happened between 11.50pm on Saturday and 12.15am on Sunday.
The 25-year-old victim suffered injuries including a fractured cheekbone, cracked ribs, cuts, bruises and a missing tooth that required treatment in hospital.
His 24-year-old friend was also taken to hospital to undergo treatment to a number of cuts and bruises.
Enquiries are ongoing to trace those responsible and officers have already carried out a number of house-to-house enquiries in the area.
Detectives are also reviewing CCTV and have now appealed for any witnesses to get in touch.
Detective Constable Thomas Stockport, of Northumbria Police ’s Central CID, said: “This was an unprovoked assault on two vulnerable members of the community.
“They have been left badly shaken by what happened and received some painful injuries during the attack.
“We are treating this as a hate crime and are investigating the possibility that they have been attacked because of their vulnerabilities.
“Enquiries into this assault is ongoing and anyone who saw what happened, or saw the group of teenagers in the area that night, should give us a call.”
Anyone with information is asked to call police on 101 quoting log 23 07/07/19 or contact Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111.
