Politics
Shocking injuries of jogger battered by gang of men in random attack in Essex park
A WOMAN was left with shocking injuries after being battered by a gang of men while out jogging.
Caitlan Smith said she was attacked by three men as she ran through Castle Park in Colchester, Essex, on Tuesday night.
Caitlan Smith said she was battered by a gang of men while jogging through a park[/caption]
The woman was left with cuts down her arms as well as a bruised face and split lip[/caption]
The woman was left with a split lip, a black eye and bruised and cut arms.
Sharing warning on Facebook, she wrote: “Colchester people walking alone at night round the bottom of castle park area please be very aware.
“I was attacked by some men when I went on my run.
“It’s known to not be the safest area and I now know just how unsafe it is. The police have been informed.”
She added: “Women shouldn’t have to not go out at night because of fear that they’re going to [be] assaulted.
“Luckily I am ok but it could have been a lot worse and the next girl might not be so fortunate. Be careful.”
Horrified locals were quick to share the post, with many expressing their concern.
Caitlan has warned others to be careful when walking alone at night[/caption]
One person wrote: “I’m so sad/furious to read this! What a terrible thing to happen.
“Amazing to share and put the word out there – well done you xxx”
Another added: “Absolute horrible! I think that’s near where the guy got stabbed like 108 times! Crazy! Hope you make a swift recovery!”
Someone else wrote: “I am so sorry that this happened to you. I usually run through lower castle park.
“I will make sure I don’t run after dusk. It is disgusting that women should feel afraid to be out for fear of being attacked by low life scum! I hope you’re okay.”
Essex police say they are investigating the shocking attack.
The force said in a statement: “It was reported the victim, who is in her 20s, was assault by three men in Castle Park at around 10pm on Tuesday 5 May.
“We have spoken with the victim and our enquiries are ongoing.”
Chief Inspector Jon Evans, District Commander for Colchester, said: “No-one should feel afraid for their safety when going out alone but we are working to identify those involved.
“Fortunately incidents such as this are rare in Colchester but we have additional patrols in the area to provide some additional reassurance.”
It comes just weeks after the country was devastated by the heartbreaking kidnap and murder of Sarah Everard.
The 33-year-old advertising executive who was snatched and killed on her walk home from a friend’s house in South London.
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Her disappearance and murder sparked a nationwide conversation about women’s safety and men’s predatory behaviour in the UK.
Cops have asked anyone with information about the recent assault in Colchester to submit a report online using the crime reference number 42/83071/21.
You can also call 101 or contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.
