The family of a pensioner shot with a crossbow outside his home say they cannot think of anyone who would want to harm him.
Gerald Corrigan, 74, was struck as he adjusted a satellite dish at his secluded property on the outskirts of Holyhead, North Wales, shortly before 12.35am on Friday.
He managed to stagger inside the property before an ambulance was called, and he was rushed to hospital in Bangor where his condition was described as critical.
Police say Mr Corrigan has since been transferred to a hospital in Stoke due to the serious nature of the injuries.
One line of inquiry is that Mr Corrigan may have been accidentally shot by a lamper - rogue night-time hunters who use bright lights to target animals.
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In a statement issued through North Wales Police, his family said: "This is a horrific incident that has happened to our family.
"We cannot think of anybody who may have wanted to hurt our father and dear partner. We are trying to come to terms with this shocking incident.
"If anybody has any information at all about what has happened, however small, please come forward to the police.
"We would like to pay tribute to the ambulance service and medical staff for the incredible work they have done.
"We remain hopeful and request privacy at this difficult time."
Police are continuing to appeal for information about the "highly unusual" incident , which occurred near the junction of Porthdafarch Road and Plas Road.
Detectives said they want to speak to anybody who may have been in the vicinity of nearby South Stack Road between 6pm on Thursday and 4am on Friday.
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They also urged neighbours in the remote area who may have private CCTV to come forward, as well as anyone who travelled on nearby South Stack Road and has dash-cam footage.
On Saturday, police said they are also keen to hear from anyone involved in either lamping, hunting and game or pest control in the South Stack area of Holyhead.
Lampers have reportedly been operating in the area recently, according to locals.
