Family of 'gentle giant' in coma after Ecclesall Road attack implore Sheffielders to 'keep him in your prayers'

Tyson Mahmood suffered multiple injuries in the incident, which happened just after 5.30pm on Saturday (September 19).

The 36-year-old was airlifted to hospital, where he remains in an induced coma.

A police probe into the attack has now been launched.

Speaking on behalf of Tyson’s family, cousin Hassan Mahmood described his relative as a ‘teddy bear’ and ‘gentle giant’ with ‘nothing but positive energy’.

"All you have to do is look at the messages online to see how loved and respected he is,” said Hassan.

"It’s impossible to dislike him, so why would anyone do this, how did this happen?

"We don’t have a clue, we’re leaving it in the hands of the police and just praying he pulls through.

"We don’t know what his outlook is, at this stage it’s a waiting game. The doctors can’t guarantee anything.

"Our message to the community is this- keep him in your prayers and please, please, if you know anything- come forward.”

No arrests have been made over the violence on Saturday, but a 31-year-old woman was held on suspicion of assisting an offender before being released on police bail.

A South Yorkshire Police spokesperson said: “The woman arrested has now been bailed pending further enquiries, while the investigation continues.

“The victim remains in hospital in critical condition. No further arrests have been made at this time.

“Enquiries are ongoing into the circumstances surrounding the assault.”

Social media has been flooded with messages of support for Tyson, from Nether Edge.

In one touching post, Pete Harpham, director of Kettle Black on Ecclesall Road, said: “We’re not blood but I class you as my brother. The family I choose.

“You’ve always been there for me and now everyone’s here for you.

“I’ve already lost someone I love this year. I ain’t losing you. You’ve got this bro, everyone loves ya.”

In another post, Debbie Carder added: “Tyson Mahmood, a friend to so many.”

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