The 71-year-old victim, who owns Fair Dinkum Mechanic’s on Port Road in Woodville Park, was working when he was allegedly attacked just after 11am.
9News understands the alleged attacker smashed through the office window and beat the man over the head with what witnesses describe as a sawn-off shotgun, before fleeing on foot.
The man then allegedly dumped the weapon in a nearby car before stealing a furniture truck, with an employee becoming briefly trapped inside.
The truck was later found some 30 kilometres away.
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The alleged attacker was arrested at an Elizabeth Downs property after heavily armed police swarmed the home some two hours after the alleged assault.
Those who know the victim say they’re “stunned” that he came under attack, although police claim the duo are known to each other.
The elderly man was released from hospital after being treated with 22 stitches.
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