Update on Billy Hurley: Local Chef Recovering After Assault in Carrickfergus

Billy Hurley, a beloved and respected chef from Carrickfergus, remains in hospital following a brutal assault last Saturday night. Billy, who had just returned home from work at around 10:15 PM, was attacked outside his residence after responding to a young girl’s cry for help near the bottom of Victoria Street.

The attack, perpetrated by a teenager, left Billy severely injured. The assailant struck him with a weighted object, causing him to collapse to the ground. While unconscious, Billy was further attacked, suffering a forceful kick to the chin. Disturbingly, the assault was recorded by a group of onlookers and later circulated on social media, sparking outrage in the local community.

Billy was has been to the Royal Victoria Hospital in Belfast, where he has now spent the past three nights under medical care. Doctors discovered that he had lost a significant amount of blood, sustained extensive bruising on his arms, and was suffering from dangerously low sodium levels. Nurses have been working tirelessly to stabilize his condition, and he is currently awaiting further CT and MRI scans to assess the full extent of his injuries.

As of now, it appears Billy will remain in the hospital through the Christmas season. Despite the trauma he has endured, Billy has expressed heartfelt gratitude to the hospital staff for their dedication and exceptional care.

The incident has deeply shaken the Carrickfergus community. Billy’s warm personality and commitment to his craft as a chef have earned him widespread admiration. Many locals have rallied around him and his family, offering messages of support and condemning the senseless violence.

The teenager responsible for the attack was arrested but has since been released on bail, further intensifying public frustration. Billy’s family has urged the community to report any inappropriate behaviour to authorities and refrain from sharing the video of the assault, which has only added to their distress.

In a heartwarming display of community support, Ciara Louise set up a GoFundMe page to assist Billy and another man who was also assaulted in the incident. The fundraiser has raised over £5,000, which will be split between them to help cover expenses as they are unable to work over the Christmas period.

As Billy continues his recovery journey, the outpouring of support from the community has been a source of comfort for him and his loved ones. While the road ahead may be challenging, the community’s solidarity serves as a reminder of the strength and compassion within Carrickfergus.

The family extends their deepest thanks to everyone who has offered kindness during this difficult time and asks for privacy as Billy focuses on healing.