Police are investigating after a man was found seriously injured in his home.
The 56-year-old was found in a property in the Peter Buchan Drive area of Peterhead, and rushed to hospital in Aberdeen.
It is understood he was put on life support while medics assessed his condition, which was last night described as “serious”.
Police believe he was injured in the early hours of Thursday, but the alarm was not raised until about 4.30pm that day.
Yesterday, police remained on guard outside the property in the quiet cul-de-sac.
Neighbours said the man had moved into the house with a woman about five months ago, but that they kept to themselves.
They added they had seen forensics teams working at the property yesterday morning.
It is not yet clear how the man was injured, although he was seen in the area between 11pm on Wednesday and 2am on Thursday.
Before being found by the emergency services later that day, he may have been around Katternburn Court and the surrounding streets.
Detective Inspector Stewart Drummond last night appealed for anyone with information to come forward.
“We are making inquiries into how this man came to be injured during the early hours of Thursday morning,” he said.
“We know he has been in the Peter Buchan Drive and possibly surrounding streets during the late evening on Wednesday and early morning of Thursday and would ask anyone
who was in these areas to come forward.”
The man is described as being white, 6ft 1in, of slim build and with blue eyes. He has an English accent, cropped grey hair and was unshaven.
Shocked neighbours said they had been unaware of the incident until the police arrived.
“The first I knew about it was three police cars showing up,” one said.
“A lot of the people here are elderly and it’s usually a really quiet street. They moved in about five months ago, but they aren’t local.
“They never really spoke to anyone.
“The only thing the police have said to us is that they don’t know how he got injured.”
Another added that she possibly slept through any disturbance.
“I’ve only heard that it’s supposedly quite serious,” she said.
“I saw the forensic boys outside, but the only thing I know is that the house is let out. I’ve never seen the people who rent it.”
Councillor Anne Allan last night wished the man a speedy recovery, adding: “It’s very concerning to hear about incidents like this.
“I’m just glad that police inquiries are ongoing.
“My thoughts are with the man and his family at this stage, and I hope he makes a speedy recovery from his injuries.”
Anyone with information should call 101 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
