Police in South Wales have arrested a man following a shocking incident in which a bulldozer was driven into a village pub, causing significant damage and crushing a parked car.
Chaotic Scene at Village Pub
Emergency services were called to the New Inn pub on High Street in Hirwaun at approximately 8.45pm on Thursday, December 4. Upon arrival, they discovered a scene of devastation, with the heavy machinery having torn through the building's portico. A car parked outside was completely flattened, although it was thankfully unoccupied at the time.
Officers from South Wales Police swiftly closed the road and secured the area. A police spokesperson stated that early indications suggested this was not a random act. "We have reason to believe that this incident may have been targeted rather than random, and we are actively investigating the circumstances surrounding it," they said.
Suspect Arrested and Hospitalised
The force confirmed that a 35-year-old man from the nearby village of Rhigos was arrested in connection with the alarming event. He faces a series of serious allegations, including:
- Attempted grievous bodily harm (GBH)
- Dangerous driving
- Driving whilst under the influence of drink or drugs
- Criminal damage
The arrested man was taken to hospital and remains there under police guard. Authorities have emphasised that no other person was injured during the dramatic episode, which has left the local community in shock.
Ongoing Investigation into Motive
While the immediate scene has been made safe, the investigation is very much ongoing. Detectives are working to establish a clear motive for what they describe as a targeted attack on the popular local establishment.
The use of industrial machinery in such an act is highly unusual and has raised serious questions. The New Inn pub is a well-known landmark in Hirwaun, and the damage caused is substantial. Police have not released further details on the suspect's potential connections to the pub or the reasons behind the alleged assault on the property.
Local residents have expressed their disbelief at the night's events, with many describing the sound of the collision and the subsequent arrival of multiple police vehicles. The road has since reopened, but the clean-up operation at the pub is expected to take considerable time.
