Eastern Region Crime Squad detectives continue to probe a violent home invasion in Ringwood East last year, which left a man with severe injuries, including a fractured skull, broken arm and loss of vision.
At approximately 1am on 15 June 2022, the 50-year-old male victim was home alone in his unit on Mt Dandenong Road, Ringwood East.
He was woken by the sound of glass as three male offenders allegedly forced entry to the premises through the rear door.
All offenders were dressed in black, had their faces covered and made demands for the victim's safe. One of the males was armed with what is described as a single barrel firearm tucked in his shoe.
The three offenders repeatedly assaulted the victim, including stomping on his head. The three males then searched the premises, allegedly stealing a safe containing personal documents, the victim's mobile phone and his wallet before leaving the address.
As a result of the assault, the victim suffered fractures to the skull and ribs, a broken arm, loss of vision to his left eye, as well as bruising and swelling to his face and body.
The Eastern Region Crime Squad has conducted an extensive investigation since the incident occurred, with a number of crucial pieces of information received from the public.
As a result, detectives believe this attack was a case of mistaken identity, with the intended target an unrelated local man involved with drugs.
Police also believe those involved fled the scene in a black or grey sedan.
Police are now appealing for anyone with more information about this incident to come forward and report it to Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or via www.crimestoppersvic.com.auExternal Link
Quotes attributable to Detective Sergeant Hannah Thompson: "This incident was a shocking case of mistaken identity, which left a victim traumatised and severely injured.
"This investigation has progressed significantly in recent times due to information received by detectives.
"Importantly, we now have a motive, an intended target and an alleged getaway car, which has opened a number of active lines of enquiry.
"We know a lot more than we did in the immediate aftermath of the incident and it's now only a matter of time until arrests are made.
"We are currently in the process of systematically working our way through a list of people potentially connected to the incident.
"My message to anyone involved is this isn't going away - hand yourself into police before we come knocking.
"We also implore any members of the public with information to come forward and help close this case."
