Teen Girl Brutally Beaten in Broad Daylight “Happy Slapping” Attack in Portsmouth
A 13-year-old girl was viciously attacked on a busy Portsmouth street in a shocking “happy slapping” assault. The unprovoked attack happened near her home on Commercial Road and was caught on mobile phone cameras.
Video of Attack Circulates School and Social Media
The horrific footage has been shared widely, including around Milton Cross School, where the victim studies. The girl’s mother, Emma Gardiner, 38, said the video was seen by family members and even her daughter.
“This is absolutely horrendous,” said Emma. “My daughter was jumped from behind by a group of savage girls while five boys stood by and filmed it. She could have ended up in hospital – they could have killed her.”
Emma revealed her daughter was left with a painful lump on her leg and is now terrified to leave the house. “After the attack, they went after her again the next day and even spat in her face,” she added.
Call for Justice Grows as Police Investigate
The attackers are believed to be pupils at nearby Portsmouth Academy, aged between 14 and 17. Emma demands the perpetrators be caught and brought to justice.
“What’s happened to her is sickening. I want those involved arrested and charged. I’m sharing this so no other child has to suffer the same.”
A shocked bystander called 999 during the assault, and police arrived promptly. The victim was asked if she wanted to press charges but just wanted to feel safe again.
School Keeps Distance, Police Appeal for Witnesses
A spokesperson for Portsmouth Academy said, “This is a police matter which happened outside school.” Hampshire Constabulary confirmed an ongoing investigation into the attack.
Anyone who witnessed the assault is urged to call police on 101.
