Northern Ireland

Three youths released on police bail after 13-year-old struck in face with hammer in Ballymena

Two youths have been arrested after a teenager was struck in the face with a hammer in Ballymena
Two youths have been arrested after a teenager was struck in the face with a hammer in Ballymena Two youths have been arrested after a teenager was struck in the face with a hammer in Ballymena

THREE youths have been released on police bail after being arrested in connection with an attack on a 13-year-old boy in Ballymena.

The teenager was struck in the face with a hammer close to the town's bus station, on the Galgorm Road, at around 3.30pm on Thursday.

It is understood that the victim is receiving treatment in hospital.

Three boys aged 14, 15 and 16 were arrested and released on bail pending further police enquiries.

It emerged that the assault was filmed by schoolchildren. It is believed the videos were later shared online.

Speaking about the assault, Ulster Unionist councillor Stephen Nicholl said: "I think there is something we need to do society wise".

"It seems to be the first reaction to any sort of event is to pop out phones and start filming it," he said.

Mr Nicholl said he was sent screen shots of what had happened.