A peaceful neighborhood in Oldham, Greater Manchester, was shaken by a horrifying incident in which a 76-year-old grandfather, Derek Hadfield, was mugged outside his home.

The thief not only stole his car keys but ran him over with his own vehicle, leaving him severely injured.

This brutal carjacking left Mr. Hadfield fighting for his life in the street.

The Terrifying Attack

Around 5:25 PM on a Saturday, Derek Hadfield returned from a shopping trip with his family.

As he approached his home in Sholver, a suburb of Oldham, he was violently pushed to the ground and run over by a car.

The thief took off in Mr. Hadfield’s Suzuki Swift, a small hatchback worth around £3,000.

His family was left in shock, trying to comprehend how someone could commit such a senseless act.

Mr. Hadfield’s son, Kevin, 36, described his father’s suffering.

He was left lying on the road, severely injured, and “left for dead,” according to Kevin.

Local residents rushed out to help after hearing the crash, tending to him until emergency services arrived.

The Damage and Recovery

The impact of the attack caused severe damage.

Derek Hadfield suffered a broken right shoulder and crush injuries to his feet, which were still under examination due to swelling.

Being diabetic, his health has become a major concern, particularly with his feet.

The pain from his shoulder remains the most troubling aspect of his recovery.

Kevin, who has two children of his own, noted how his father’s dog, Bonnie, seemed to be affected by the attack.

The 11-year-old pointer dog had been waiting for Derek to return home and appeared unsettled when taken near the spot where the attack occurred.

Mr. Hadfield remains in hospital, where his family says he is recovering but still not himself.

His son remains uncertain whether his father will be well enough to leave before Christmas, or if he will need further care.

Community Support

The family has been overwhelmed by the outpouring of support from the local community.

Kevin expressed his gratitude for the messages of support they’ve received, which have helped lift his father’s spirits.

Neighbors, including Chelsea Derbyshire and Jennifer Sykes, were quick to respond, providing blankets and waiting with Mr. Hadfield in the cold until the ambulance arrived.

Their swift actions and kind words have meant a great deal to the family.

“I’m amazed at how the community has come together,” Kevin said.

“People offering help and sharing messages of support has made a huge difference.”

Police Investigation and Arrest

The shocking nature of the crime has led to an ongoing police investigation.

Detective Inspector Andrew Day of Greater Manchester Police described the incident as “frightening and disturbing.”

A 15-year-old boy has been charged with robbery and appeared in court, where he was remanded into custody until his next court date.

The community is still reeling from the attack, with residents expressing fears for their safety.

“It could change his life,” one neighbor said.

“I don’t feel safe. I won’t let my kids play out.”

As the investigation continues, the family hopes for justice and a full recovery for Derek.

This article was published on TDPel Media. Thanks for reading!

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