Violent Canal Robbery in Leigh Leaves Elderly Man Seriously Injured
Greater Manchester Police are hunting for clues after a brutal robbery on the Bridgewater Canal in Leigh left a man in his late 70s seriously hurt.
Attack Caught in Broad Daylight
The shocking attack happened just before 4.30pm on 8 June 2024. Officers arrived at the scene after reports of a robbery and found the elderly victim badly injured. He was rushed to hospital for urgent treatment.
Suspect Strikes with Bike Chain, Pushes Victim into Canal
Detective Sergeant Victoria Smith from GMP’s Wigan district revealed the chilling details. The suspect, dressed head-to-toe in black, rode his bike in front of the victim and tried to snatch his bike. When the victim fought back, the attacker assaulted him with a bike chain before shoving him into the canal.
“The suspect was wearing a black balaclava with a skull design,” said DS Smith. “He fled the scene with the victim’s bike.”
Miraculously, the victim’s helmet protected him from worse head injuries. Despite the ordeal, he managed to climb out of the canal and seek help.
Police Urge Witnesses to Come Forward
The attack took place on a busy stretch popular with cyclists, joggers, and dog walkers. Police are appealing for anyone who saw the assault or the suspect to get in touch immediately.
- Call 101 quoting incident number 2088 of 8/6/24
- Report anonymously via Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111
Police remain determined to track down the attacker and protect the local community from further harm.
