Man beaten to floor in ‘cowardly attack’
7:00am Saturday 9th March 2013 in Latest News
Man beaten to floor in ‘cowardly attack’
SHOCKING CCTV footage shows an 18-year-old man being floored with one punch in an unprovoked attack from behind.
The images, released by detectives investigating the serious assault, show the victim walking through Fleet Street while on a night out when he appears to be distracted into turning around before his attacker runs up behind him and punches him in the back of the head.
The incident took place shortly after 2.15am on March 3 in the area outside the Subway sandwich shop, which was busy with revellers.
The victim, who sustained serious facial injuries including a broken nose, cuts to the face and loss of teeth, was walking towards Bushwackers nightclub when the attack happened.
Two onlookers and a friend of the victim rushed to his aid, while the attacker is seen appearing to celebrate his actions before making off. Another onlooker in a black T-shirt appears not to react.
The offender is described as a white man, of slim build, approximately 6ft tall, with shoulder length dark hair. He was wearing blue jeans and a jumper.
Police have condemned the ‘cowardly’ attack.
Acting Detective Chief Inspector Mark Garrett, of Swindon CID, said: “This was a horrendous and unprovoked attack which has left the victim with extensive injuries.
“The victim was completely unaware what was about to happen. The CCTV footage shows that the offender has run up behind the victim and with one very forceful punch, knocked him to the ground.
“This is such a cowardly attack by a very violent man.
“I would urge anyone with information to come forward to help identify who was responsible for this terrible assault.
“Swindon town centre weekend evenings are robustly policed and incidents of this type are rare.”
Anyone with information should contact Wiltshire Police on 101 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.
To see the video visit www.swindonadvertiser.co.uk.
