A search is underway for an alleged sexual offender who assaulted a 13-year-old girl as she walked to school in Worcester. The attack happened on a footpath in Nunnery Wood at 8.15am on Tuesday, and police say the girl managed to escape the suspected attacker as he attempted to rape her.
Attack near school and hospital
The alleged sexual offence took place in a green space between Worcestershire Royal Hospital and Nunnery Wood High School. Officers are still looking for the suspect, who is described as mixed race, aged between 16 and 18, and wearing all-black clothing.
The girl and her family are currently being supported by specialist officers. Residents were warned to expect a heightened police presence in the area into next week as enquiries continue.
Investigation underway
DCI Gareth Lougher said: 'A team of dedicated detectives from the MIU are now running the investigation and have been continuing to develop several lines of enquiry.' He added that local bus companies have been contacted to gather dashcam and CCTV footage from vehicles in the vicinity at the time of the incident.
Officers have also been conducting house-to-house enquiries and gathering ring doorbell footage and CCTV from the area. Lougher said: 'We have also already received several reports from members of the public following our appeals, which will further our lines of enquiry, and we thank everyone for getting in touch and sharing the appeal.'
Appeal for dashcam footage
Police are particularly interested in hearing from anyone with dashcam footage from the Countryside Centre car park, Wildwood Drive or the A440 near KFC between 8am and 8.30am on the day of the assault.
Safer Neighbourhood Chief Inspector Dan Pilkington said: 'We understand the feeling of concern and uneasiness that this incident has brought to parents, teachers and the wider local community, and we are keen to keep you informed as the investigation continues.' He added that visibility patrols will continue this week and into next, specifically around the relevant school times.
Pilkington said: 'We do encourage anyone with any concerns or information to speak to an officer.' Anyone with information should call 101, quoting reference 78i of November 10.
