Detectives investigating a rape in Bristol's Castle Park have renewed their appeal for information, one year on from the attack. Avon and Somerset Police have re-released footage of a man they wish to identify in connection with the incident.
The victim, a man, spoke to the suspect in Broadmead before being attacked and raped near the church in Castle Park between 06:00 and 07:00 BST on 16 October 2021. The suspect is described as black or mixed race, aged in his 20s or 30s, slim, about 5ft 8-10ins tall, and with a deep voice. He was seen wearing a dark jacket, tracksuit bottoms, and a white hat.
Speaking 12 months on, the victim said: 'A year ago today, I was attacked and raped in Castle Park, having only moved to the city a few weeks prior. It's impossible to put into words the effect this attack had on me and I still struggle to come to terms with what happened. I never want to see something like this happen to somebody else. Everyone has the right to feel safe. If anyone has any information at all, please come forward.'
Detective Inspector Andrew Branch called it an 'appalling crime', adding: 'We are focussed on trying to identify the perpetrator so we can get the victim the justice he deserves. A lot of work has gone on over the past year, including a number of arrests, to do just that.' He said officers continue to keep an open mind but believe the attack was an isolated incident, not linked to any other crime. 'We remain hopeful there is someone out there who will be able to provide us with the vital piece of information we need in this investigation,' he added.
