An 18-year-old man was severely beaten with a piece of concrete late Tuesday night, in an assault that’s being investigated by Buffalo police as a possible hate crime.

The victim, Brian Milligan, who lives off Genesee Street at the eastern edge of the city, was listed in serous condition Wednesday in the intensive care unit of Erie County Medical Center, where he’s being treated for a severe head injury.

“Police are looking into the possibility that it could be a hate crime, based on the information we have received,” said police spokesman Michael J. DeGeorge, who declined to elaborate.

Witnesses told police that the young man, who is white, was beaten by a group of about 10 to 12 black males believed to be between 15 and 17 years old. The attack occurred near 2120 Genesee St. at about 10:30 p. m., reports said.

Police are investigating the possibility that the beating may have resulted from a dispute involving a friend of the victim. The victim’s mother reportedly told police that about a week ago her son was approached by a group and told “not to mess with our girls.” Family members believe the incidents may be related, police reports stated.

Following the attack, which occurred at about 10:50 p. m. at Genesee Street and Floss Avenue, the victim managed to make his way to his nearby home.

Police fielded calls about a gang assault, and they followed the trail of blood to the man’s home.

Detectives say they have been hindered in their investigation by the victim’s reluctance to talk about the crime.