A top detective today told of his fears for the health of the 86-year-old victim of a brutal robber.
The elderly woman now faces surgery after she was punched to the ground by a young thug, leaving her with a fractured thigh.
And the man leading the hunt for the attacker - Det Insp John Kreyling - said today the man must be caught before he strikes again and possibly murders someone.
Face of evil - an e-fit of the man police are hunting
The robbery, in Brackendale Avenue, Pitsea, on Sunday night has even staggered hardened detectives, who have visited the woman in Basildon Hospital where she is awaiting surgery to her leg.
Det Insp Kreyling, of Basildon CID, said he was "extremely concerned" for the woman's health.
He said: "I sincerely hope she pulls through to make a recovery following surgery.
"From the time this incident was reported to the police, I have had all available staff assigned to the investigation.
"This man has to be caught before he commits another similar crime, to prevent another act of violence which may prove to be fatal.
Information to police on 01268 532212 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555111
Published Wednesday August 28, 2002
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