Advertisement

'Opportunistic' thieves smash school cleaner in face with cricket bat on his way to work

WARNING, DISTRESSING CONTENT

A Sydney school cleaner is recovering in hospital and may need surgery after being brutally smashed in the face with a cricket bat on his way to work.

Steven Sutherland was left bloodied and swollen almost beyond recognition after a gang of thugs set upon him early Tuesday morning.

Steven Sutherland was beaten and robbed by senseless thugs at St Mary's in Sydney early Tuesday morning. Picture: 7 News
Steven Sutherland was beaten and robbed by senseless thugs at St Mary's in Sydney early Tuesday morning. Picture: 7 News

The thieves jumped the 37-year-old as he walked towards the train station at St Mary's before dawn, in what police believe was an opportunistic attack.

Police were told the victim was assaulted a number of times by three people who were possibly holding bats.

They took his wallet and phone, while leaving Mr Sutherland badly bleeding with suspected facial fractures.

He was treated at the scene by NSW Ambulance Paramedics before being taken to Westmead Hospital in a stable condition.

A crime scene was established which was examined by specialist forensic officers.

Police have been told the victim was assaulted a number of times by three people who were possibly holding bats. Picture: 7 News
Police have been told the victim was assaulted a number of times by three people who were possibly holding bats. Picture: 7 News

Investigators don't believe it was a targeted attack, Detective Inspector Barry Vincent told 7 News on Tuesday.

"Everyone goes to work in the morning, it could have happened to anyone. Unfortunately it happens to the people who don't deserve it."

“Certainly it would appear to be quite a sustained assault," he said.

Detectives have reviewed security vision from the scene but are urging witnesses to the attack to come forward to assist with investigations.

“The only description we have at this stage is three males wearing dark hoods and they were last seen running along Phillip Street in St Marys," Detective Inspector Vincent said.

“We're certainly keen to find them and put them before the courts."

Detective Inspector Vincent said police believe it was an opportunistic attack. Picture: 7 News
Detective Inspector Vincent said police believe it was an opportunistic attack. Picture: 7 News

Those who know Mr Sutherland can't understand why anyone would hurt him.

A friend of the victim, Anthony Eathorne described him as a "quiet" man.

“Very placid. You have a conversation with him and he's the most easy going bloke you could meet.”

Anyone with information is encouraged to call Crime Stoppers 1800 333 000 or use the Crime Stoppers online reporting page.