Police have released images of a man they want to speak with after a woman was sexually assaulted in Islington. The victim, in her early 20s, was approached by an unknown man in the Essex Road and Northchurch Road area at around 3am on July 4.
The man harassed her while walking alongside her, then dragged her into the entrance of a building where he physically and sexually assaulted her. He fled towards Angel when two members of the public heard her shouting for help and came to her aid.
Suspect description and appeal
The suspect is believed to have visited a nearby shop after the attack but made no purchases. He is described as between 5ft 8ins and 6ft tall with short hair or a shaved head, wearing a distinctive tie-dye t-shirt with blue and pink streaks. Police are also keen to trace the unidentified man who helped the victim, described as a white male in his late teens or early 20s with an athletic build and curly, ash-blonde hair.
Investigation details
Detectives particularly want to speak to anyone in the Essex Road area between 2.45am and 3.30am on July 4 who may have seen something suspicious. Detective Chief Inspector Paul Ridley said: “We take reports of this nature incredibly seriously and are committed to supporting victims and putting those responsible before the courts.”
“This was a deeply distressing attack on a young woman, which we are investigating as an attempted rape. My officers have been working tirelessly to identify the suspect as quickly as possible.”
“CCTV shows a man fleeing along Essex Road, running past a bus stop towards Angel. There were a number of vehicles on the road at that time.”
“Please get in touch with us if you recognise the man or if you have CCTV or dashcam footage that could help our investigation. No piece of information is too small, and what may seem insignificant to you could prove vital to our investigation.”
“Two members of the public bravely came to the woman’s assistance. While officers have spoken to a woman who intervened, we are yet to speak to the man who also stepped in. He is described as a white male in his late teens or early 20s, with an athletic build and curly, ash-blonde hair.”
“I would like to make a direct appeal to him to get in touch with officers. He may have crucial information to support the investigation and would ask that you contact us as soon as possible.”
How to provide information
Information can be provided online via the Metropolitan Police website or by calling 101, quoting CAD 1303/4JUL26. Alternatively, information can be provided anonymously through Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 or online at www.crimestoppers-uk.org.
