An unknown person attempted to steal a security guard's weapon in the central Israeli city of Ramat Gan.
The security guard, 68, protects a preschool compound. He managed to thwart the theft, but received a blow to his head.
Magen David Adom paramedics arriving at the scene transferred the guard to Tel Hashomer Hospital for medical treatment. He is currently in moderate condition.
Initial investigations show that the officer was sprayed with an unknown substance before the attempted theft, and fought the thief before being attacked.
The would-be thief escaped after the security guard fired warning shots into the air.
Israel Police are searching for the suspect, and an investigation has been opened.
The incident is currently assumed to be criminal in nature.
Anyone with information is asked to call the police hotline or the Ramat Gan police station.