A MAN of no fixed address has been remanded in custody for knocking a man unconscious near the Mount Gambier Railway Lands on Sunday night.
Brock Anthony Woods, 43, appeared in police custody in the Mount Gambier Magistrates Court yesterday following his arrest by police in the
morning.
It is alleged Woods punched and kicked a man on Railway Terrace at around 10pm on Sunday night.
The attack was witnessed by patrons moving through the area following the conclusion of the Red Hot Summer Tour.
The victim was knocked unconscious during the assault, resulting in serious head injuries.
He was transported to Mount Gambier Hospital where he was assessed for injuries, which may require surgery in the future.
Limestone Coast Police operations manager Inspector Campbell Hill said police had attended the scene before the assault occurred.
“There was an interaction between a group of people and police attended and spoke to some people involved and at that point in time there was not any offences disclosed.
“Police left the area and the information we have received is that after that an assault has occurred.”
He said there was no indication as to whether the people involved in the altercation had been at the Red Hot Summer Tour prior.
“We are aware there was an influx of people in the area following the concert, but whether the people involved on either side, we simply do not know,” he said.
However, Insp Hill admitted it was a concern the assault occurred with so many people in the area.
“It is our expectation and certainly the community’s expectation they can go to an event, have a good time and get home safely,” Insp Hill said.
“We had a contingent of police in proximity to the event and they were involved in this prior, but there were no offences for police to take any further action at that time.”
While the victim’s injuries were not life-threatening, Insp Hill said the assault was quite serious.
“We do not tolerate assaults regardless of whether they are in a private place or a public place,” he said.
“All it takes is one serious assault and people can get injured or people can get killed.”
Insp Hill has appealed for any witnesses to come forward.
“Anyone who was in the Rail Lands precinct at that time who might have information or witnessed any altercations or assaults in that area should contact police,” Insp Hill said.
Anyone who witnessed the incident or has any footage is asked to report it online at www.crimestopperssa.com.au or call 1800 333 000.
