Two arrested in poaching attempted murder inquiry

Police were called to a suspected poaching incident in October 2024

Two people have been arrested after a man was hit and seriously injured by a vehicle when confronting intruders in a field at night.

Police said they were called to a reported poaching incident near Hurstbourne Tarrant, Hampshire, shortly after 23:00 BST on 24 October 2024.

The victim allegedly confronted men he had seen in the field before being knocked down by their vehicle, according to officers.

A 37-year-old man from Totton has been rearrested on suspicion of attempted murder. The suspect and a 60-year-old Totton woman have also been arrested on suspicion of perverting the course of justice.

Police said the latest arrests followed further evidence coming to light.

"We were called at 23:09 on Thursday 24 October to what was initially reported as a suspected poaching incident on Netherton Road.

"On arrival, a man in his 50s was found with serious injuries.

"It was reported that the man had attempted to confront a group of men he had seen in a field. The men reportedly got into a vehicle, which then struck the victim. The vehicle was then driven from the scene.

"The man was taken to hospital with life-changing injuries but has since been discharged," a police statement said.

The two suspects have been released on bail while inquiries continue.