A 25-year-old man has been arrested on suspicion of rape following a terrifying late-night attack on a teenage girl in a quiet North Somerset village. Avon and Somerset Police have launched an urgent appeal for witnesses as the man is released on conditional bail while the probe continues.
Victim Escapes Brutal Assault in Rooksbridge
The victim, thought to be in her late teens, was attacked around 1am on 16 March in the Rooksbridge area. She managed to escape and flag down a passing member of the public for help.
Neighbourhoods’ Inspector Charmaine Dyne said: “A thorough investigation is underway, and we remain in contact with the victim who has been offered access to specialist support services.”
She added: “We want to remind people that any violence towards women and girls will not be tolerated, and any victim of a sexual offence will be heard, believed, and supported.”
Police Hunting Key Witness and Witnesses With Dashcams
Detectives are desperate to speak to a woman seen wearing a lanyard and walking with a small child. This woman was approached by another female asking for directions to Bridgwater. Police believe this encounter could crack the case.
Officers are also urging motorists who drove through Rooksbridge, Loxton, Sevier Road, and Axbridge between 6am and 7.45 am on the morning of the attack to check their dashcams. Any footage could be vital to identifying witnesses and piecing together the timeline.
Witnesses who saw a woman walking alone in rural areas during this time are also asked to come forward.
Investigation Prioritised As Police Call for Urgent Info
Specialist officers are supporting the victim while police gather evidence. Authorities have praised the member of the public who helped the teenager immediately after the attack.
The investigation remains a top priority. Anyone with information, dashcam footage, or who thinks they met the woman seeking directions should contact Avon and Somerset Police straight away.
