Savage attack victim’s parents appeal for witnesses

THE parents of Cork native David Keohane have appealed for witnesses to come forward with information to help identify his attackers.

The flooring contractor, originally from Ballyvolane in Cork city, but now an Australian permanent resident, was found by a passer-by at 3am in the up-market Sydney beachside suburb of Coogee a fortnight ago suffering from severe head injuries.

New South Wales (NSW) police said that David is likely to have been the victim of a robbery — despite not being in possession of any money or his wallet — with more than one assailant suspected of the brutal assault.

Mr Keohane’s life is not in any immediate danger, but police revealed that his injuries were so severe that it took 48 hours to identify him using CCTV footage from the nearby Coogee Bay Hotel and other pubs in the area.

His parents, Tom and Rita Keohane, are keeping a vigil at their son’s bedside.

“David remains on life support and it is really heart-breaking to see your son laying there in that condition,” said Rita Keohane. “We are hoping and praying he will recover sufficiently to one day be able to travel home with us.

“If there is anyone who knows how David was injured, or who did this to him, please come forward and speak with the police.”

New South Wales Police crime manager Detective Inspector Paul Pisanos, said investigations into the assault are continuing.

“We have interviewed a number of local residents and patrons from a nearby hotel, but still want to hear from anyone who saw David leave the hotel, purchase a pizza at a nearby shop, and walk along Coogee Bay Road into Brook Street,” Det Insp Pisanos said. “If you were in the vicinity of either Coogee Bay Road, or Brook, Kidman, Mount, Dudley, or Arden Streets at Coogee last Saturday, and witnessed the assault or saw a group of people or individuals in the area who could possibly assist with inquiries, please contact us.

“Any information can be provided anonymously.”