An 18-year-old was assaulted, robbed and left unconscious in a Dunstable street in the early hours of Saturday morning.
The victim, who was returning home after a night out in Milton Keynes with friends, was rushed to Addenbrookes Hospital, Cambridge, where he remains in a High Dependency Unit in a serious, but stable, condition.
The attack took place sometime between 4.25am and 4.36am after the teenager and three friends had returned to Dunstable in a taxi but then made their own way home.
As the victim walked along Lowther Road, he texted and then called his mother to say he was on his way home.
Minutes later the victim was found unconscious in the road with a serious head injury. His mobile phone and wallet had been stolen.
Detectives have spoken to a number of witnesses in the area, but they would particularly like to speak with two men who were seen running along Lowther Road at the time that the attack took place.
Det Con Gill Cowley, who is investigating the assault and robbery, said: “This was a horrendous attack on a young man who was home from university and had enjoyed a night out with friends. I’d appeal to anyone who saw anything to come forward and speak with us.
“I’m particularly keen to trace two men who were seen running along Lowther Road around the time that the attack took place. They may have very important information about what happened and it is imperative that we speak with them.
“I’d also urge any motorists or pedestrians who were in Lowther Road or the adjoining street and who may have seen anything suspicious to get in touch. Even the smallest piece of information could help us with our enquiries.”
If you have information relating to this incident, contact Det Con Cowley, in confidence, on 01582 394471, the non-emergency number 101, or text information to 07786 200011.