Cyclist in Australia shot in what police say is random attack

Police in Australia are hunting for a man who shot a cyclist at the weekend in what was apparently a random attack. The victim’s family suspect he may have been about to cycle past something his attacker “didn't want him to see.”

Retired schoolteacher Kelvin Tennant, 72, was due to undergo surgery earlier today for multiple bullet wounds in the incident on Saturday lunchtime.

According to skynews.com.au, he has pellets lodged in his chest as well as in his face close as a result of the shooting.

He had been riding on the Myrtleford-Everton Rail Trail in Everton, north east Victoria, reports skynews.com.au.

Police believe the weapon used was small calibre but cannot provide any details beyond that at the moment.

Detective Senior Constable Elise Douglas explained “We'll have to have a better look at the injuries and hopefully get some ballistics evidence to help us out.”

Officers described Mr Tennant as a “grandfather who enjoys cycling,” and that the attack seemed to be motiveless.

They are appealing for information, including from cyclists who have been using the trail at the time.

His son, speaking outside the Alfred Hospital where his father is being treated, said: “Dad just observed a dark coloured car in an unusual place and before he knew it, a person jumped out and fired shots at him.

“The person was behind a bush and they walked towards him.”

Mr Tennant’s daughter, Natalie Knox, said her father “feels blessed and lucky and happy to be here. It was very close.”