Nearly three months after a brutal attack outside the Encore Pub in Southampton, police have finally released CCTV images of the suspects wanted in connection with the assault that left a 29-year-old man fighting for his life.
Man’s Neck Artery Severed in Horrific Night Attack
The victim underwent emergency surgery after the main artery in his neck was severed during the savage assault in the early hours of Saturday 22 July. Luckily, the operation saved his life, and he is now recovering at home.
Because of the severity of the attack, police are treating the incident as attempted murder.
Police Hunt Men Seen Heading to Gatwick After Attack
Earlier CCTV showed a group heading down Bedford Place towards the Encore Pub about 10 minutes before the attack. Several vehicles passed the scene, with some occupants even getting out to help the victim.
Investigators are especially keen to speak with a couple caught on CCTV walking along Commercial Road near the time of the attack. They are thought to be vital witnesses.
After the assault, the group reportedly took a coach from Southampton Coach Station to Gatwick Airport’s North Terminal. From there, they caught a train travelling through London, Hertfordshire, and ending in Bedford.
CCTV Images Released of Suspects at Gatwick Airport
Police have now released clear images of the suspects at Gatwick Airport’s North Terminal train station. Detective Constable Marsha Brown said: “We believe these men got off the train in central or north London. We’ve been running extensive enquiries to track them down.”
She added: “The men are quite distinctive, and I’m confident someone will recognise them. We urge anyone who knows these men, or saw this group on the coach or train in the early hours of 22 July, to come forward.”
How to Help
- If you recognise any of the men, call police on 101 quoting reference 44170281379.
- You can also contact Crimestoppers anonymously.
Police are desperate for any tips to bring these suspects to justice and close the case on this brutal attack.
