Police release images of youths they want to speak to after lifeguard assaulted at Casey Aquatic Recreation Centre

Police have released images of eight youths they want to speak to after a young lifeguard was allegedly assaulted at the Casey Aquatic Recreation Centre.

A lifeguard was assaulted at the Casey Aquatic Recreation Centre in Narre Warren. Picture: Supplied

Police have released images of eight youths they want to speak to after a pool lifeguard was assaulted in Narre Warren.

A 19-year-old lifeguard was patrolling the Casey Aquatic Recreation Centre in Narre Warren around 5.50pm on Sunday when he was allegedly approached by a group of youths and assaulted.

It’s alleged the group punched, kicked and headbutted the lifeguard in the vicious attack.

The lifeguard was left covered in his own blood and needed to be transported to hospital for treatment.

It is believed the lifeguard approached the group and asked them to stop doing dangerous dives and stunts around other swimmers which led to the alleged assault.

The group then fled the scene and were last spotted heading toward Fountain Gate Shopping Centre.

Police have released images of people they want to speak to. Picture: Victoria Police

Police released the images after a lifeguard was assaulted at a swimming pool in Narre Warren. Picture: Victoria Police

Police on Wednesday released CCTV footage where up to eight males attacked the 19-year-old guard who had asked the group to leave after “numerous warnings” about their behaviour.

Casey CIU detective acting senior sergeant Luke Shore said in response police would boost patrols at Casey community centres.

“We’re organising reassurance patrols at (Casey) facilities … we’ve put out some tasks to our frontline to ensure there’s a visible police presence when and where possible at our local facilities,” he said.

Detective Shore described the offending as “cowardly”.

“The lifeguard was just trying to do his job and keep the community safe,” he said.

“Our understanding is that it was up to an eight on one attack there were other staff members that tried to intervene and objects within the pool floor used as well. It’s really concerning and really disturbing.”

Police are hoping the public will recognise the youths in the photos. Picture: Supplied

One of the youths police want to speak to. Picture: Victoria Police

Another of the youths police want to speak to. Picture: Victoria Police

City of Casey Mayor Stefan Koomen said the council was alarmed by the alleged attack and had thrown their full support behind the investigation.

“We are deeply committed to making our aquatic facilities safe for everyone to enjoy,” he said. “We are actively supporting the police investigation and providing all necessary assistance.

“The City of Casey, in partnership with Aligned Leisure, is providing support to the lifeguard and all staff involved.

“We are taking immediate steps to increase security at all our aquatic centres to ensure a safe environment for everyone.”

Anyone with information is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or submit a confidential report at www.crimestoppersvic.com.au.