Manhunt after grandfather slashed across the face in 'callous and unnecessary' knife attack

Police have launched a manhunt after a grandfather was slashed across the face in an east London knife attack.

The 65-year-old victim was walking home when he was approached from behind and slashed across the face with a knife, Scotland Yard said.

The man’s daughter and grandson heard his shouts and tried to chase the attacker, but the suspect had already fled along the other side of the street.

Police said they were called to the scene on Mandeville Street, Hackney, at around 8pm on April 11.

Paramedics were already treating the man’s “significant facial wound, which required multiple stitches”.

The Met Police said in a statement: “The victim was approaching his home when he was approached from behind by a man and slashed across the face.

“The victim's daughter and grandson, who heard the shouts of the victim, had come out of the house and attempted to pursue the suspect, however he fled the scene.”

Officers today released a CCTV image of a man they want to speak to.

He is wearing a black puffer jacket with a small white logo, dark trousers and black rucksack and is believed to be in his mid-twenties.

There is nothing to suggest the victim and suspect are know each other, the statement added, while enquiries continue to establish any possible motive.

“This was a callous and unnecessary attack on an innocent member of public,” said DC Robina Balal of the Central East Command, who is leading the investigation.

“We urge anyone who recognises the man in the imagery to come forward and let us know any information could help us to catch the man who caused this life-changing injury.”

Anyone with information is asked to contact police on 101, quoting CAD 7174/11Apr, or speak to Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.