A south-west detective says police are running a resource-intensive investigation into an "appalling and traumatising" aggravated burglary at Hamilton.
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Detective Senior Sergeant Chris Asenjo said a Hamilton woman in her mid-40s was alone at an address in Hamilton's Kent Road when an unknown man confronted her at 1.10pm.
He said the man, armed with a knife, threatened and assaulted the victim.
"We believe the incident within the house was quite protracted before police were able to be alerted," he said.
Detective Senior Sergeant Asenjo said the man fled the scene in a Toyota HiLux ute.
"We believe the vehicle sustained a smash to the front windscreen as it left the property yesterday and we think that will make it very distinctive," he said.
The car was photographed leaving the address by a witness.
Detectives have released images and footage of the vehicle as part of their investigation into the aggravated burglary.
The grey 1995 Toyota HiLux utility (registration NEL-031) is registered to a local resident however investigators are working to ascertain who was driving it at the time of the incident.
The detective said the victim had no physical injuries but was left "absolutely traumatised".
"This was a brazen incident where a woman was home alone," he said.
"It is an appalling crime given the fact that a woman or any person should feel safest in their own home."
Detective Senior Sergeant Asenjo said the woman was now recovering with her family.
"She was supported by police at the scene and will continue to be provided with further direct support later today and going forward."
Detective Senior Sergeant Asenjo said the offender remained outstanding but police had already worked more than 15 hours straight during the investigation process.
"This is at the top of our list," he said.
"This is a very, very significant crime and we are running a resource-intensive investigation.
"We ask anyone who may know the identity and the whereabouts of the person involved, or anyone with information about this terrible crime to contact us immediately."
Anyone who has seen the vehicle should contact 000.
Anyone with information on the aggravated burglary is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or online at crimestoppersvic.com.au/report-a-crime.
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Jessica Howard
jessica.howard@warrnamboolstandard.com.au
jessica.howard@warrnamboolstandard.com.au
