Avon and Somerset Police have launched a hate crime investigation after a man was left in a critical condition following a suspected homophobic attack in Bristol city centre. The incident occurred on St Nicholas Street in the early hours of 24 April, when emergency services were called to reports of a man found lying unconscious with severe facial injuries.
The victim, aged in his 30s, was taken to hospital where his condition has since deteriorated. He is now in a critical but stable state. A second man sustained minor injuries during the same incident but did not require hospital treatment.
Police are treating the case as a hate crime due to a potential homophobic motivation. A spokesperson for Avon and Somerset Police said: "We are concerned that the incident may include a homophobic hate crime element. An initial account was provided by a second victim who has since been able to provide more information, which means we are investigating the possibility that there could have potentially been a homophobic motivation."
Police Appeal for Information
Neighbourhood Chief Inspector Keith Smith stated: "We are treating this incident seriously and have briefed local LGBTQ+ leaders and SARI (Stand Against Racism & Inequality) of the current situation, because we have recorded this as a hate crime."
Detectives are appealing for witnesses to come forward. The attackers are believed to be a group of three or four men who initially fled on foot before driving away in a car. One suspect was reportedly wearing a blue jacket, while two others were dressed predominantly in black or grey. CCTV inquiries are ongoing to obtain more detailed descriptions.
Smith added: "At this stage there is no evidence to suggest a wider risk to the public, but we wish to identify the offenders as soon as possible. The man who required medical treatment remains in a critical condition. We are in regular contact with hospital staff and his family to gain updates. We are also keeping the second victim updated with our investigation and ensuring they have access to any support they may need."
Anyone with information is urged to contact police on 101, quoting reference 5226111583. Alternatively, Crimestoppers can be contacted anonymously on 0800 555111 or via their website.
