Police have launched an urgent manhunt after an alleged attempted rape in Ealing's Walpole Park. On January 13, around 6:30pm, a man approached a woman, threw her to the ground, and tried to sexually assault her. She managed to fight him off and reported the incident that same night.
The Metropolitan Police are now seeking the public's help to identify the suspect. An e-fit image has been released, showing a man with a skinny to average build and thick, dark brown hair. At the time of the attack, he wore a black puffer jacket, grey trousers, and black shoes with white soles. Police believe he may have Middle Eastern heritage.
During her escape, the victim scratched the suspect's face, which may have left a noticeable mark. Detective Constable Grace Doolan, leading the investigation, said: “The victim in this case was subjected to a truly shocking assault. She has shown real bravery in reporting this to police, and is being supported by specialist officers.”
Doolan added: “The description she provided has allowed us to put together an e-fit of a man we would like to speak to. She also told officers she had managed to scratch the suspect’s face when attempting to escape – something which may have left a noticeable mark.”
“We understand the alarm arising from cases like this. We have explored various lines of enquiry, and are now releasing this e-fit in the hope that someone may recognise this man. We also believe there may have been people who saw or heard something happening in the park without realising what was taking place. We would ask anyone who remembers being in the area at the time, and who might have information, to come forward and speak to us.”
If you recognise the person in the e-fit, please call 101, quoting reference 6428/13JAN.
