Police investigate alleged hammer attack

A Bullsbrook truck driver is fighting for his life after he was allegedly struck multiple times with a hammer during a random attack at a Meekatharra service station this morning.

A 44-year-old Como man is being held and questioned by Geraldton detectives over the alleged assault.

Police say the man attempted to drive off without paying for fuel at the Coles Express Meekatharra Roadhouse about 6.45am.

After a verbal confrontation with a staff member, the man left the scene.

He returned a short time later allegedly armed with a hammer and began smashing the toilet area of the roadhouse.

Police say the Bullsbrook truck driver, a male in his 40s, was in the toilet at the time and was struck several times in the head with the hammer.

He was conveyed to Meekatharra Hospital before being transferred to Perth by the Royal Flying Doctor Service, where he remains in a critical condition.

Police allegedly stopped the Como man at 10.03am on Great Northern Highway, about 40km north of Cue, travelling in a blue Subaru.

Detective Senior Sergeant Gary Butler from Geraldton Detectives Office praised the work of local police.

“There was some very quick thinking and a rapid response from the Meekatharra, Mount Magnet and Cue police in this instance,” he said.

“Obviously this is a serious offence and investigations are ongoing at this stage.”

Police say the man has not been charged but could face grievous bodily harm charges with a possible upgrade to attempted murder.

The weapon has not been located and CCTV footage is being reviewed, police say.