Fresh appeal to find Bristol park rapist one year on as victim speaks out

Detectives investigating a rape in Bristol are making a renewed appeal for information exactly one year after the attack.

The suspect is still thought to be at large despite CCTV enquiries, media appeals and proactive patrols following the rape.

Between 6am and 7am on October 16, last year, the victim was walking through Bristol’s Broadmead area when he got talking to an unknown man, who went on to attack and rape him in Castle Park.

Sharing his account of the ordeal as part of a fresh appeal, the victim, whose identity has been protected, said he’d only moved to the city a few weeks prior.

He said: “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 to this day.

“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.”

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The suspect is described as black or mixed race, about 5ft 8-10 ins, in his 20s or 30s, and of a slim build. He is said to have spoken in a deep voice.

Three men have been arrested as part of enquiries to date. Two remain released under investigation, while the third has been excluded from the probe.

Avon and Somerset Police have re-released CCTV footage of a man it wants to identify as part of the investigation. He can be seen wearing a dark jacket, tracksuit bottoms and a white hat.

Senior Investigating Officer Detective Inspector Andrew Branch said: “This was an appalling crime and 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. Although we continue to keep an open mind, at this time we believe was an isolated incident and it has not been 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.

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“It may be someone who at the time thought that detail was irrelevant, or it may be someone who didn’t feel comfortable coming forward last year. Whatever the reason, I would make a direct plea to anyone who may be able to help, to please call us, or Crimestoppers anonymously.”

DI Branch continued: “From the day it was reported to us we have sought to provide the victim with access to any support services he requires and will continue to do so.

“He has shown an incredible amount of courage throughout this police investigation and we are determined to do all we can to find the offender.”

Witnesses or anyone who thinks they can help identify the man in the footage is asked to call 101 and give reference number 5221242253.