Detectives investigating the attempted rape of a 13-year old schoolgirl have released an e-fit image of a suspect. Officers say a man approached the girl on a street in Highbury and placed his hand over her mouth.
The suspect forced her into Coach House Lane where he assaulted her before being interrupted by a passer-by.
He then stole a bike from a teenage boy, rode a short distance along Highbury Hill, before making off on foot.
“Our investigation is progressing well and we have already spoken to a number of witnesses who have come forward to provide information; I would thank them for their assistance so far.
However, we are still keen to trace the teenage male cyclist as he would have got a very clear view of the suspect and could provide us with vital information.
With the help of another witness we have created an e-fit of the suspect. We hope this will help identify him and I would urge anyone who recognises the e-fit image to contact police as soon as possible.
We continue to provide support to the very young victim and her family. This was a terrifying ordeal that took place in daylight as she walked to school and I am keen to identify and arrest the suspect as soon as possible.” – DETECTIVE CONSTABLE BEN LUCAS, SEXUAL OFFENCES, EXPLOITATION AND CHILD ABUSE COMMAND
The attack happened on Wednesday, 8 June at around 8:20am. Anyone with information about either the suspect or the teenager on the bike is asked to call 101 or to remain anonymous, call Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
