Police Hunt Man After Brutal Attack on NHS Doctor in East London
Detectives have released a photo of a man they want to identify following a shocking assault on an NHS doctor in east London. Officers also want to speak to two men who briefly walked with the victim during the horrifying ordeal.
Doctor Followed and Attacked on DLR
At around 6.15pm on Friday, 17 April, a 37-year-old NHS doctor was waiting at Shadwell DLR Station after work when she noticed a stranger acting suspiciously on the platform. The man appeared to be following her.
Feeling uneasy, the doctor boarded the train – with the man on behind her. She tried to shake him off by getting off at Canning Town and quickly re-boarding. But the suspect mirrored her every move.
Desperate Plea for Help Ignored
When she reached Royal Victoria DLR Station, the man was still on her tail. Frightened, she asked two strangers to walk with her, hoping for safety in numbers. They did so for a short distance before splitting ways.
Despite her efforts, the suspect continued following her. While she was still on the phone to police, walking along Butchers Road, E16, the man suddenly attacked and shoved her to the ground.
Injuries and Investigation Details
- The victim suffered cuts, bruises, and a broken tooth and was hospitalized.
- The attacker fled back towards Royal Victoria DLR Station.
- Police are unsure of the motive; no belongings were stolen and no link to NHS work evident.
Suspect Description and Police Appeal
The suspect is described as a black man, about 20 years old. He wore grey jogging bottoms, a grey hoodie under a dark jacket, and a dark cap.
“We have no reason to believe the victim was targeted because of her NHS role. However, she endured a terrifying chase through the transport network,” said Detective Constable Alister Kim.
“We urgently need the public’s help to identify this man. If you witnessed anything at Shadwell, on the train, Canning Town, Royal Victoria, or along Butchers Road, please come forward.”
“We are especially keen to speak to the two men who escorted the victim briefly.”
Anyone with information should call police on 101, quoting reference CAD 6121/17 Apr.
