Brutal Bat Attack and Van Arson Shock Maidstone Road
Victims Beaten with Bats and Bars After Crash
Terrifying violence erupted late on Saturday, 2 October 2021, when men travelling in a Vauxhall Vivaro were allegedly savaged with baseball bats and metal bars. The van, cruising along Maidstone Road in Nettlestead, was slammed from behind by a grey or gold VW Golf around 10.40pm. The collision forced the van to stop near the Seven Mile Lane roundabout.
Several suspects jumped out of the Golf and launched a vicious assault on the victims. Police rushed to the scene. The injured men were rushed to hospital with serious cuts and bruises.
Recovery Van Targeted in Firebomb Attack
The nightmare didn’t end there. Just hours later, at 2.10am on Sunday, 3 October, the same van—now on a recovery truck—was set on fire. This happened at a junction by Bow Road near Wateringbury Village Hall.
A motorbike rider allegedly hurled an incendiary device into the van, sparking a blaze. Luckily, the quick-thinking recovery driver doused the flames before they spread.
Police Urge Public to Come Forward
Detective Constable Hannah Barker of West Kent CID said: “We are keeping an open mind as to the motive behind both the assault and the arson. We urge anyone with information to get in touch. Drivers passing through these areas during the times mentioned should check for any dashcam footage that might help our investigation.”
Anyone with info should call Kent Police on 01622 604100, quoting reference 46/193987/21. You can also report anonymously to Crimestoppers on 0800 555111 or via their online form.
