Police renew appeal for witnesses six months on from racially aggravated attempted murder
The attack on an NHS worker in broad daylight shocked the country
The police in Bristol say they are working "painstakingly hard" to catch those responsible for a racially aggravated attempted murder.
Six months ago on 22 July a 21-year-old NHS worker was hit by a car and then racially abused, as he walked home from a shift at Southmead Hospital in broad daylight.
It happened at around 4:30pm on Monks Park Avenue leaving the victim with serious injuries. He is only being identified as "K" for his own protection.
Four people have been arrested since, but half a year later no one has been charged.
Detective Inspector Danielle Underwood said: “I and my team are working hard and painstakingly to build a case for charging those responsible for K’s horrendous injuries.
We understand the frustration over the time this complex investigation is taking – we feel it too – but we’re determined to do this right to get justice for K.”
Investigators have issued CCTV of the suspect vehicle (a dark blue Honda Accord) as well as stark images of the damage to the car and wall showing the force of the impact which caused K’s injuries.
Appeals to trace potential witnesses and to encourage anyone with information about those responsible to come forward have featured on news outlets across the country.
The independent charity Crimestoppers previously supported these appeals with a £5,000 reward for information given to them which leads to a conviction.
The victim himself says he is still suffering from what happened.
"My attackers broke my body," he says.
"Their violence touched the soul of my family, friends, fellow Bristolians and beyond.
“But my attackers didn’t break my heart nor Bristol’s heart.
“It’s clearly only a matter of time until they are caught.
“I would again like to thank all those that came to my aid, administered care, sent me well wishes, donated money – including Bristol’s Massive attack – and those that continue to provide my medical care."
He adds "unfortunately" his injuries mean he cannot yet return to work at Southmead, but he hopes to rejoin his colleagues soon.
“If you are reading this and can help the police catch my attackers, do the right and courageous thing and please do. Thank you.”
If you saw the collision, anyone running away from the scene or witnessed the blue Honda Accord being driven in the Monks Park Avenue area just beforehand – especially if you have CCTV, dashcam or phone footage – call 101 quoting reference 5220163308.