A man has been arrested and is currently receiving treatment in hospital following a dramatic incident in Hirwaun, Rhondda Cynon Taf, on Thursday evening, December 4.
Emergency services were called to the New Inn pub on Smiths Avenue after reports that a bulldozer had been driven into the premises, also flattening a parked, unoccupied car. Members of the public were urged to avoid the area as paramedics and police attended the scene.
South Wales Police confirmed that a 35-year-old man from Rhigos had been arrested on suspicion of attempted grievous bodily harm (GBH) and multiple driving offences, including driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs. The man remains in hospital, and no other injuries were reported.
A police spokesperson said: “We were called just after 8.45pm on Thursday, December 4, with a report of a man having driven a bulldozer into a pub on Smiths Avenue, Hirwaun. The driver of the bulldozer had also driven over a parked, unoccupied car.
“We have reason to believe that this incident may have been targeted rather than random, and we are actively investigating the circumstances surrounding it. A 35-year-old man from Rhigos has been arrested on suspicion of attempted GBH; dangerous driving; driving whilst under the influence of drink or drugs; and criminal damage. He is currently in hospital.
“No other person was injured during the incident, and the investigation is ongoing. The incident was swiftly brought under control and we would like to extend our thanks to the public for their support throughout the incident.”
The Welsh Ambulance Service confirmed they had dispatched one emergency ambulance and an operations manager, along with pre-hospital care specialists from MEDSERVE Wales. One patient was taken to hospital for further treatment.
Images from the scene on Friday morning showed extensive damage to the front of the pub, which posted on Facebook that it would be “closed until further notice” due to “unforeseen circumstances”.
Police maintained a cordon around the area on Friday morning while investigations continued. South Wales Police added: “We are not looking for anyone else in connection with this incident and there is no ongoing risk to the public. There remains a police presence in the area. Please plan any travel to avoid this area while emergency services are at the scene.”
