Authorities in Bristol have released a CCTV image of a man they seek to identify in connection with a hate crime investigation. The incident, which occurred at Turtle Bay on Cheltenham Road in Montpelier, involved a man in his twenties who was subjected to verbal abuse, including homophobic and transphobic language, before being physically assaulted. The attack transpired around 15.30 on Saturday, July 29, leaving the victim with injuries that required hospital treatment.
The man depicted in the CCTV image is described as white, in his late teens or early twenties, approximately 5ft 10ins in height, with a medium build and medium-length brown hair that was shaved on the sides and longer on the top. He was wearing blue jeans and a black t-shirt at the time of the incident.
Investigating officer PC Matthew Lawson has categorised this as a hate crime, stating, “This was a vicious and unprovoked assault which, due to the language used by the offender, is being treated as a hate crime. This is a worrying incident, and we’re ensuring the victim gets any support he may need.”
PC Lawson further urged the public’s cooperation, saying, “We want to speak to anyone who recognises the man in the image, or who may have witnessed or even filmed the incident taking place.”
Authorities are encouraging anyone with information related to this incident or who can identify the individual in the CCTV image to come forward. Witnesses and informants can contact the police at 101 and provide the reference number 5223182231. ”
