Appeal for man who could have 'valuable information' in Bristol rape investigation

The incident happened last month, with the man spotted on CCTV coming to the aid of a distressed woman

Author: Oliver MorganPublished 19th Apr 2024

Police have launched an appeal for information for a man who they think could have 'valuable information' after a serious sexual assault in Bristol.

They say the incident happened in the early hours of the 15th of March, when it's reported he came to the aid of a distressed woman.

She'd hurt her ankle and was sitting outside Broughton House on Somerset Street, Redcliffe, at just before 1am - which is when a man approached her and offered to help her home, before he reportedly carried her to Clarence Road and raped her near Spencer House.

The woman has since been offered specialist support.

The man police say may be able to help with their investigation is described as wearing a light-coloured jacket and jeans and carrying a bag, with the CCTV image showing him walking along Bedminster Parade at about 1.55am, not long after leaving the woman near ASDA Bedminster.

He is asked to come forward as he may have valuable information.

The woman, who is in her forties and white, arrived home in a distressed state and police were called.

The suspect is described as being in his twenties and white, wearing black clothing with his head and face covered by a scarf.

The man who helped the woman to ASDA, or anyone else with information which could help the investigation, is asked to call 101 and give the reference 5224066648.

Alternatively contact the independent charity Crimestoppers 100 per cent anonymously by calling 0800 555 111, or online.

Help is available for victims of rape or sexual assault, recent or non-recent.

People can self-refer to The Bridge, a Sexual Assault Referral Centre available 24/7 365 days a year. Visit their website or call 0117 342 6999.

There are also details of charities and organisations with expertise in supporting victims here.

You can also visit the StreetSafe tool on the police website - which helps to inform their approach to protecting women and girls and allows police and partners to target particular areas of concern.

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