A HAMMER-wielding assailant attacked a man before threatening his family and smashing up his car in a “frightening incident”.

The victim, a man in his 40s, was in a layby off Hurn Road near the Blackwater Junction in a black Honda CR-V that had broken down on Tuesday afternoon.

He soon became involved in a row with another man in a dark-coloured Range Rover that was parked nearby.

The offender then punched the victim in the face, knocking him to the ground, before driving off in the Range Rover.

However, around 20 minutes later, the assailant returned wearing a motorcycle helmet and carrying a hammer.

He smashed the rear and side windows of the victim’s car before threatening his family, as well as a witness who tried to intervene.

Bournemouth Echo: Smashed car window after incident near Hurn.Smashed car window after incident near Hurn. (Image: Dorset Police)

Investigating officers are now appealing for information following the incident between 11.35am and 12.20pm on Tuesday, June 13.

Police Constable Chloe Candy, of Dorset Police, said: “This was a frightening incident for the victim and his family, and we are carrying out enquiries to identify the man responsible.

“I would urge any witnesses who have not already spoken to police to please come forward.

“I would also urge any motorists with dashcam who were driving in the vicinity around the relevant timeframe to please check their footage for anything that might assist our investigation.”

Anyone with information is asked to contact Dorset Police at www.dorset.police.uk or by calling 101, quoting occurrence number 55230091075.

Alternatively, independent charity Crimestoppers can be contacted anonymously online at Crimestoppers-uk.org or by calling Freephone 0800 555 111.