A WOMAN found with severe head injuries in thick scrub next to Hodgins Rd in Hastings has been placed in an induced coma.
A man and his wife found the Hastings woman after hearing cries for help at about 12.30 Monday morning.
Detective Leading Senior Constable Darren Sherren, of Hastings CIU, said the woman, aged in her 50s, had been taken by ambulance to the Monash Medical Centre.
After undergoing surgery she had been placed in an induced coma and was now in the intensive care unit.
“We believe she was walking home from doing some shopping,” Detective Sherren said.
“She had gone to the supermarket and we believe had been making her way home along Victoria St.
“We don’t yet know how her injuries occurred, but she also had scratches on her hands and wrists.”
Detective Sherren estimated the injured woman may have been lying in the scrub for up to an hour.
Police have spoken to the woman’s nieghbours and friends.
Police forensic officers have investigated the scene and late Monday afternoon State Emergency Services volunteers were called on to search the scrub where she was found.
“Something has happened and she went into the bushes about four metres from the footpath,” Detective Sherren said.
“No one has seen the alleged assault; maybe it was a fall.”
Police have appealed for anyone who can help their investigations to call Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or Hastings CIU on 5970 7800.
