Police appeal for key witness after a schoolgirl is attacked in Sunderland

A teenage schoolgirl was left with a fractured cheekbone after a violent attack – and police are now appealing to identify a key witness.

The incident happened in the Union Street area of Sunderland at about 8pm on Sunday 27th June where a 13-year-old girl was assaulted.

It was reported that she had been attacked by an older girl outside the Greggs bakery – with the ferocity of the assault leaving the victim with serious facial injuries.

The girls are believed to be known to each other. An investigation has been launched into the incident with detectives carrying out a range of enquiries.

Police are now appealing for a Good Samaritan who helped the injured girl a short time after the attack to come forward.

The adult male helped the victim and walked her to the Wearmouth Bridge, waiting with her until a family friend came to collect her.

Detective Sergeant Sara Stobie, of Northumbria Police, said:

“This was a nasty assault which left the victim with a fractured cheekbone. She was understandably distressed by what had happened.

“We are now committed to finding out the circumstances behind the attack and this male could be a key witness who we really want to contact us.

“He is not in any trouble at all, but we hope he has information that can assist our ongoing investigation so I am appealing for him to come forward and make himself known to police.”

The man, or anyone with information, is asked to contact police via the ‘Tell Us Something’ page of their website or by calling 101 quoting log 440 280621.

Alternatively, you can email 8683@northumbria.pnn.police.uk directly if you can help.