Thames Valley Police is continuing to investigate the rape of a woman in Didcot.
At around 6.45pm yesterday (11/10) the victim, a woman aged in her thirties, entered Edmonds Park. While she was walking near the outdoor gym equipment in the park, she was tripped up by a person from behind.
She fell to the ground where a man subsequently raped her. The offender ran away in the direction of Park Road.
At around 7pm members of the public phoned police to say they had located a distressed woman in the park near Newlands Avenue.
The victim is being supported by specially trained officers.
A scenewatch is in place in Edmonds Park and will remain in place while officers are carrying out enquiries in the area.
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Det Supt Paul Hayles, Head of Force CID, said: “Officers are still in the early stages of making enquiries and ensuring the victim receives the support she needs.
“I would like to continue to appeal for anyone who witnessed anything suspicious in the park at around the time of the incident to contact police. Even if certain details seem insignificant to you, please come forward and provide them, as they may assist the investigation.
“Officers are in the process of supporting and obtaining further details from the victim in relation to a description of the offender.
“I am aware reports on social media have suggested the incident could be linked to the abduction and rape of a teenage girl in Summertown, Oxford, on 28 September, however there is currently no evidence to suggest this and they are believed to be separate unrelated incidents.”
Ch Insp Graham Wharton, Deputy Local Police Area Commander for South Oxfordshire and Vale of White Horse, said: “I am aware incidents of this nature can cause some concern in the local community however a team of detectives is working to identify and locate the offender. Officers are continuing to patrol the area and anyone who has any information or any concerns can approach and speak to a police officer.”
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tmJpz3WZg_g
Anyone with any information about the incident should contact the 24-hour Thames Valley Police enquiry centre on 101.
If you do not want to speak directly to the police you can contact the independent charity Crimestoppers (opens new window) (opens new window) anonymously on 0800 555 111. No personal details are taken, information is not traced or recorded and you will not go to court.
