Hate Crime Shock in Balcombe as Man Attacked Near Cowdray Forest
Man Assaulted in Dark Volkswagen Polo Incident
Sussex Police are hunting for info after a brutal assault near Balcombe, believed to be a hate crime fuelled by homophobia. The victim was attacked at around 11pm on February 22, right off the B2110 High Street, near Cowdray Forest.
The man had stopped in a car park just past the junction with the B2036 when a passenger from a dark Volkswagen Polo pulled up and launched the attack. The victim suffered burn-like injuries during the assault.
Suspect on the Run – Can You Help?
Police describe the suspect as a stocky man, about 5’11”, with strawberry blond hair, aged between 20 and 30. After the attack, the driver sped off, turning left back along the B211 towards the B2036.
Police Step Up Patrols in Wake of Attack
Detectives are on the case, increasing patrols in the area to keep the community safe. District Commander Chief Inspector Steve Turner said:
“This was a shocking incident that has left the victim shaken. He has received support from our officers. It is being treated as a hate crime, and we are asking people in the area to be vigilant.
We are appealing for anyone with information about this incident to come forward and report it to us. This includes anyone in the area at the time and anyone with relevant CCTV, dashcam, mobile phone, or doorbell footage in the area.”
How to Report Information
- Online: Report via the Sussex Police website
- Call: 101, quoting serial 49 of 24/02
- Anonymous Tip: Contact Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111
Sussex Police urge anyone with details to step forward and help bring the attacker to justice. Stay vigilant, Balcombe.
