Police are conducting a thorough investigation following the apprehension of a man accused of attempting to forcibly push a distressed woman into a car in a busy city center.
The incident unfolded in the Clifton area of Bristol on September 30, where a man tried to force a woman in her 30s into a Peugeot 207 while she screamed for help. A member of the public intervened, shouting at the man as the woman was driven away in the car.
The car eventually came to a stop on the A39 in Coxley, near Wells, Somerset. The victim managed to escape the vehicle, but the man tried to coerce her back inside. He then drove off without her when several vehicles approached from behind. Shortly after, in Coxley, the man drove the car at the victim and forcibly returned her inside before driving away. Several passing vehicles witnessed the scene, according to the police.
The car proceeded to a small car park on Rowdens Road, where the victim once again cried out for help towards three members of the public before being forcibly taken by the man.
Afterward, the man fled the scene while the three men who had assisted the victim provided her with transportation to safety in a black saloon car. Detectives are eager to speak with these individuals as potential key witnesses.
DC Kirsty Richards described the incidents as “truly shocking” and urged the public to come forward with any information to aid the investigation. She reassured that there is no broader threat to the public, as the individuals involved were acquainted. The victim is receiving support from specialized officers.
Authorities are seeking information from witnesses who may have seen parts of the incident or the vehicle involved. They are particularly interested in speaking with the person who intervened in Bristol, any drivers in Coxley, and the three men who assisted the victim in Wells, believing their information could be crucial to the case.
Individuals who witnessed the events or possess information that could assist law enforcement are encouraged to contact the non-emergency number 101, quoting reference number 5225274967, or complete the online appeals form provided by Avon and Somerset Police.