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Witness appeal after 86-year old woman injured in an attempted robbery in Southampton

Press Releases

Published: 08/09/2010


Police in Southampton are appealing for witnesses after a man on a cycle attempted to snatch a bag from an elderly woman leaving her needing hospital treatment for a head injury and suspected broken pelvis.

The 86-year-old was walking along Cannon Street near Shirley high Street at around 5.10pm yesterday, Tuesday, September 7, when the man cycled up behind her and tried to grab her bag. It was tied around the walking frame the woman was using and both she and it fell to the ground as he pulled on the bag.

She cut her head as she hit the pavement and was left dazed and shocked. Witnesses reported the man circled around nearby looking as though he may try again but when he saw people approaching her he cycled off. The victim was taken to Southampton General Hospital and where she was also found to have suffered suspected broken pelvis.

The man is described as a white male aged in his 30s, unshaven, wearing a navy blue hoody and purple t-shirt. He was riding a dark blue pedal cycle.

Detective Inspector Gary Towse from Shirley CID said; “This was a despicable crime against a woman who was obviously very vulnerable and the would-be robber saw that and tried to take advantage of the situation. We really want to speak to any witnesses who saw the incident or who may have seen the man hanging around the area prior to the attack. We know he approached one woman directly and asked her for money shortly before the incident and officers are very keen to speak with her.

“I am asking that woman or any other witnesses to get in contact with my team at Shirley CID on 101 or call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 as soon as possible.”

A 39-year-old man from Southampton has today been arrested in connection with the offence and is currently being questioned by officers.


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