A 72 year old man is in a serious condition after an aggravated burglary last night in Co Kildare.
Gardai say a number of men entered a shed in Celbridge during the incident, and one person has been arrested.
At around 9.30 last night, a number of men entered a shed at a house in Adrass Lower in Celbridge, and attempted to steal property.
The owner - a 72 year old man - disturbed the men and was assaulted.
He has been taken to Connolly Hospital in Blanchardstown where his condition is described as serious but stable.
Gardai say a number of suspects ran from the scene, while one fled on a scrambler bike which was stolen from the property.
In a follow up search, a teenager was arrested and was taken to Leixlip Garda station where he can be held for 24 hours.
Gardaí are appealing to anyone who noticed any unusual activity in the Adrass Lower area last night, or anyone who was driving in the area between 9pm and 10pm last night to contact them.
"Savage Attacks"
It comes in the wake of an aggravated burglary in County Sligo last month which has left a man in his 70s in a critical condition.
Gardaí described the attack on Thomas Niland as "vicious and cowardly."
Celbridge councillor Nuala Killeen says people are worried about the recent increase in attacks on elderly people:
"Really I've had several approaches this morning from residents who are concerned for the health and wellbeing of that homeowner."
"The burglary was early enough in the evening, it was only at about 9.30pm."
"People are just very shocked."
"There's really no need to assault elderly people."
"I know people are obviously committing a crime, but these savage assaults are something new."
