Woman critically hurt in 'homophobic' drill attack

A woman is in a critical condition after being attacked with a drill in Strabane, Northern Ireland.

The 38-year-old victim sustained a serious head injury, and police believe the attack may have had a homophobic motive.

A 17-year-old male has been arrested a short distance away from the scene of the incident in Railway Street and remains in custody.

SDLP assembly member for West Tyrone, Daniel McCrossan, said it was "one of the most horrific incidents" he had learned of during his time as a politician.

"It is a monstrous attack and one that has sent shockwaves across the entirety of the wider Strabane community today," he added.

"I actually felt sick, that this could happen."

Detective Sergeant Brian Reid said: "This was a brutal attack and the injuries sustained by the victim are extremely grave.

"We are exploring a possible homophobic motive for the crime and we are appealing for witnesses to get in touch with us.

"We would like to hear from anyone who may have seen a male carrying a drill in the area at around the time of the assault and we would especially like to speak to anyone who may have captured footage, either on a mobile phone or a dashcam.

"Anyone with such footage or any other information that could assist the investigation is asked to contact police in Strabane on 101, quoting reference number 153 05/05/18.

"Alternatively, information can also be provided to the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 which is 100% anonymous and gives people the power to speak up and stop crime."

Sinn Féin West Tyrone MLA Michaela Boyle said: "People are absolutely numb with shock at the horrific nature of this attack perpetrated against this woman and the thoughts of everyone are with the victim and her family at this time.

"My hope is that she can pull through from the life-threatening injuries which she has sustained.

"Police are also reporting that there could be a homophobic element to this horrific attack, which only adds to the sense of outrage felt in the community.

"There is no place for hate crime of any kind in our society and if this report is true then this barbaric attack is all the more reprehensible.

"I would appeal to anyone who can help police in their investigations into this barbaric attack, to come forward immediately and assist."