Police have launched an investigation after a woman in her 20s was raped in a recreation ground in Cowley, Oxfordshire. A cordon is in place around Hollow Way Recreation Ground, with all entrances sealed off as detectives gather evidence.
The incident is reported to have occurred at around 10pm on November 8, near the junction of Horspath Road and Rupert Road. Thames Valley Police confirmed they are investigating reports of the rape and are carrying out what they described as "fast-time enquiries" to establish exactly what happened.
Police appeal for information
Officers have appealed for anyone with information to come forward. A Thames Valley Police spokesperson reportedly said: "Officers are investigating a reported rape of a woman in her 20s, that occurred at around 10pm yesterday (8/11) near the junction of Horspath Road and Rupert Road."
The spokesperson added: "We are in the early stages of our investigation and officers are carrying out a number of fast-time enquiries to establish exactly what happened. The victim is being supported by specially trained officers." Police are asking anyone who was in the recreation ground or on surrounding roads at around 10pm to come forward if they saw anything suspicious.
Residents express concern
Local residents have said they are "anxious" and "concerned" after finding the park sealed off, according to the Oxford Mail. Neighbourhood officers have been patrolling the area to reassure the public while evidence is gathered. A large police presence has been seen at the park, with multiple vehicles and plain-clothed detectives in the area.
Residents reported hearing fireworks at the park late on Sunday evening and said they did not know the reason for the sudden arrival of police at that point. Police also encouraged residents with CCTV, doorbell, dash-cam or mobile phone footage recorded in the area around that time to contact the force. Anyone with information should contact police quoting investigation reference 43260585129.
