Shocking New Year’s Day muggings in Southampton park – elderly woman left battered!
An 82-year-old lady was brutally robbed and slammed to the ground in broad daylight at Watts Park, Southampton, on Monday 1 January just before 11.30am.
Handbag snatched as victim strolls through park
The pensioner, fresh from a coffee catch-up with a friend, had entered Watts Park via the busy junction of Above Bar and Commercial Road when a young man, about 5’7”, suddenly pounced.
He grabbed her handbag straight from her shoulder, knocking her over in the process, then sprinted off with the loot.
Victim suffers fractured shoulder and bruises
Paramedics rushed the woman to hospital where she was treated for a fractured shoulder and heavy bruising.
Witnesses reported a second man courageously giving chase to the suspect in a bid to help the victim.
Police hunt brave Good Samaritan and witnesses
Detective Constable Martin Brewer of Southampton Central Police said: “We are desperate to speak to the man who chased after the thief, and anyone who saw the incident or spotted a young man running through the park or nearby streets on New Year’s Day.”
He added: “This was a cowardly crime targeting a vulnerable member of our community simply out for a stroll. If you witnessed anything or have info, please come forward.”
Anyone with information is urged to call 101 quoting reference 44180000667, or contact Crime Stoppers anonymously.
