Kent Police launch urgent hunt after brutal pensioner mugging and car theft in Gravesend
Pensioner Attacked While Clearing Road Obstruction
At around 7:05am on Wednesday 21 May 2025, a man in his 80s was violently assaulted near Istead Rise, Gravesend. The victim was driving his red Citroen Synergie along Walnut Hill Road when he stopped to move a fallen log blocking the road.
As he stepped out, four men reportedly attacked him, leaving him with facial cuts and bruises. The attackers then fled, stealing the pensioner’s Citroen in the getaway.
The stolen car was later found abandoned on Downs Road.
Red Bicycle-Wielding Suspect on the Loose
Police describe one suspect fleeing the scene on a red bicycle, dressed in black clothing and carrying a black rucksack. He was last seen heading towards New Barn via Nurstead Lane and Main Road.
Police Plead For Dashcam and CCTV Footage
Kent officers are appealing to motorists and local residents to check dashcams and CCTV for any footage capturing the suspect or the stolen Citroen between 7:00am and 7:30am on that morning.
A Kent Police spokesperson said: “This was a cowardly and targeted attack on a vulnerable member of our community. We urgently want to hear from anyone who saw anything suspicious in the area that morning.”
If you have any information or footage, call Kent Police on 01474 366149, quoting reference 46/84946/25. Alternatively, contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111.
How You Can Help Catch The Thugs
- Check dashcam or CCTV near Walnut Hill Road, Nurstead Lane, Main Road, or Downs Road.
- Watch out for a red bicycle and a black-clad suspect carrying a black rucksack.
- Report any sightings or footage via the police appeal line or Crimestoppers.
