News / Bristol City Centre
Teenage girl hospitalised after ‘sickening’ attack by group of youths
A teenage girl was taken to hospital after being attacked by a group of youths in what police have described as a “sickening” incident in Bristol city centre.
Officers said the girl, in her mid-teens, was assaulted by several boys and girls in the Broadmead and Cabot Circus area at about 7.45pm on Wednesday evening.
She suffered injuries which are not believed to be life-threatening but was left “understandably distressed”, police said.
The attack is currently being treated as a hate crime.
The suspects are described as a group of teenage boys accompanied by two girls, believed to be aged between 12 and 18.
Police said they are of mixed heritage and were wearing dark clothing.
Neighbourhood Chief Inspector Keith Smith said officers were aware there “may have been an exchange beforehand about which schools those involved attend”, but added that investigators were keeping an open mind about what led to the assault.
“Many parents will have noticed an increased police presence around schools over the past week, and they should expect this to continue in the coming days so that neighbourhood officers are on hand to speak with anyone who has concerns.
“We urge anyone with information about the identity of those involved to come forward and assist our enquiries.”
Schools across the city have written to parents about the incident, saying they are “closely monitoring developments”.
Anyone with information is asked to call police on 101 quoting reference 5226061116, or to submit information via the force’s online appeals form.
Information can also be passed anonymously to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 or through its website.
Main photo: Betty Woolerton
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