Police have renewed their appeal for information as they continue searching for two masked men accused of seriously assaulting a 76-year-old, stealing nine firearms and setting his Coles Bay home on fire.
The alleged attack happened around 5am on Saturday, July 11, when the men broke into Grant Whelan’s rural property armed with a crowbar.
Police allege they assaulted Whelan and forced him to open his firearms safe before stealing nine registered guns, cash and his white 1998 Toyota Hilux.
The men then allegedly bound his hands and feet, dragged him into the yard and set the house alight.
Detective Inspector David Gill said investigators were still trying to identify those responsible and recover the firearms.
“We’re renewing our call for anyone with information that may assist our investigations to come forward,” he said.
“If you have dashcam or CCTV that may be relevant to our investigations or information in relation to the stolen firearms or anyone who has obtained or is selling firearms, please come forward.”
Whelan remains in a stable condition at the Royal Hobart Hospital.
A fundraiser set up by his daughter has raised more than $63,000 to help him rebuild.
“Our thoughts remain with him as he recovers,” Gill said.
The stolen ute has been recovered from the Apsley River and is undergoing forensic examination.
Anyone with information is asked to contact police on 131 444 or Crime Stoppers anonymously, quoting reference number 810474.
