Gardaí have appealed for information after a man suffered serious head injuries in an assault in Co Offaly today.
The man, who is in his 50s, was assaulted near Supervalu on Main Street in Birr at about 3pm.
He was airlifted to Beaumont Hospital in Dublin where his condition is described as serious.
Gardaí in Birr said a male juvenile is currently assisting with their investigation.
Gardaí are examining CCTV footage from the area and scenes of crime investigators from Tullamore are currently examining the scene.
They are attempting to ascertain whether an implement, possibly an iron bar, was used during the assault.
Anyone who witnessed anything suspicious is asked to contact Birr Garda Station on 057 91 69700 or contact the Garda Confidential line at 1800 666 111.