Police try to identify man after attack in Hackney Park

WHO IS THIS MAN? That is the question that police are asking after a woman was attacked in London Fields. They have issued the above CCTV image in the hope that the public can help them answer it.

The attack took place in the afternoon of Saturday, 4th April at the entrance to the tennis courts in Richmond Road, near the junction with Navarino Road. Police received a report at 3.48pm that an injured woman had been found there.

Police and the London Ambulance Service went to the scene and found a woman in her 30s who had stab wounds on her arm and back. The London Ambulance Service took the victim to an East London hospital where it was confirmed that her injuries were not life-threatening.

The police later established that the woman had been walking through the area on her own when a man she did not know ran up to her and stabbed her in an unprovoked attack.  He then ran away down Navarino Road. Police immediately searched the area – bringing out dogs from the Dog Support Unit to help – but they could not find the suspect.

The attacker is described as a black man, about 5ft 8ins tall, of medium build.  He was wearing a red beanie hat, a mustard coloured jumper and grey trousers.

Detective Sergeant Justin Franklin from the Central East CID is leading the investigation. He said, “This is a shocking unprovoked attack with no apparent motive and it is understandably going to cause concern in the community. However, please be assured that we are working around the clock to find the person responsible and bring them to justice.

“Meanwhile our residents can expect to see an increased police presence in the area. I’d encourage anybody walking alone to remain vigilant and report anything suspicious to police. I would urge anyone who can assist our inquiry, or knows who this man is, to contact police as a matter of urgency. Your information, no matter how small or insignificant you think it is, could be vital to our investigation. Help us to help keep you safe.”

●Anyone who witnessed the attack, saw the suspect running away or has any other information which could assist the police is asked to contact them via 101 and quote reference 4448. Alternatively you can contact Crimestoppers on 0800-555 111 and give information anonymously.

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