Pensioner 'died twice' as he chased off teenagers

A PENSIONER collapsed and "died twice" after chasing teenage yobs who had pelted his windows with vegetables.

• David Alexander collapsed in Honeyman Court

David Alexander, 65, suffered a heart attack after he gave chase to a gang who were said to have attacked his home with peppers.

His life was saved by paramedics who were called to the scene and he remains in a serious condition in hospital. Police are investigating and say two 14-year-old boys have been charged in connection with the incident.

One resident who lives in the same street in Armadale, West Lothian, said: "He died twice in the street and then paramedics had to revive him.

"I thought he was going to die on the street. It was frightening."

Another resident said: "There have been a few incidents of vandalism over the past couple of years here, but nothing too much.

"The thing is there is no deterrent to kids these days.

"I think it's a natural reaction to do what he (Mr Alexander] did but it could have killed him. Everyone is so glad he's pulled through."

Mr Alexander was taken to St John's Hospital following his collapse near his Honeyman Court home on Sunday evening. He remains in hospital, where his condition is described as serious but stable.

Mill Road, Grove Road and Woodend Walk were all closed off following the incident as an investigation was launched.

Armadale councillor Isabel Hutton, who lives opposite Mill Road, said: "My heart goes out to Mr Alexander's family who must be in a state of shock. This could so easily have ended in tragedy had it not been for the expertise of our emergency services, who saved Mr Alexander's life. People are entitled to a decent quality of living without this type of antisocial behaviour."

Mr Alexander's family did not wish to comment on the incident today.

A police spokesman confirmed two the teenagers had been charged in connection with the incident and a report would be sent to the Children's Reporter.

He said: "An investigation is under way following an incident in Armadale around 5pm on Sunday, November 7.

"A 65-year-old man suffered a heart attack shortly after a minor disturbance involving youths in the area of Honeyman Court.

"Anyone who was in the area of Honeyman Court or Mill Road, who has any information that can assist our nquiries, should contact police."