Spokane Valley deputies are investigating the “brutal assault” of a 58-year-old El Salvadorian man behind a Spokane Valley church Wednesday.

The man was located behind the New Life Church at 10920 E. Sprague around 1:40 p.m. He was unconscious and bleeding heavily and his shoes and pants were missing, according to a Sheriff’s Office news release.

Witnesses told detectives they saw the victim behind the church with two white males earlier in the afternoon. The men had thin builds and appeared to be transients, the news release said.

Detectives learned that the victim frequently goes to the church to socialize. He speaks little English but has a valid passport and is in the country legally, the news release said.

The man’s clothes and personal items were located in the 10800 block of East Main by a citizen shortly after 6 p.m. Wednesday. Other clothing that may belong to the suspects was also located.

The victim is in serious but stable condition at a local hospital. His injuries include severe facial fractures.

Anyone with information about the assault is asked to call Crime Check at (509) 456-2233.