Arrests made after suspected hate crime in Avonmouth
Three people held over a serious assault on cargo ship staff
Three individuals have been arrested in relation to an attempted murder investigation following a violent attack in Avonmouth, suspected to be a hate crime.
The incident occurred on Richmond Terrace on the evening of 31st July, prompting emergency services to respond to reports of a violent altercation among several people.
Among the victims, one man sustained life-threatening injuries and is currently hospitalised in critical condition, while his next of kin have been informed. A second man received medical treatment but has since been discharged, and a third man suffered minor injuries.
The suspects, two men aged 19 and 45, along with a 17-year-old male, were apprehended on suspicion of attempted murder. Additionally, a 38-year-old woman is in custody under suspicion of assisting an offender.
Superintendent Deepak Kenth said, “We understand that the three men who sustained injuries, including the man who remains in hospital, are staff members on a cargo ship that recently docked at Avonmouth. All three men are Filipino nationals.
“There has been a suggestion that racist language was directed towards at least one of the victims during the attack. Therefore, we are treating this as a suspected hate crime at this point, pending further information coming to light during our enquiries.
“We are aware there is some speculation online suggesting the injuries were caused by a knife, or a similar weapon, but that is not the case.
“While the full circumstances around what happened remain unconfirmed and under investigation, based on our current understanding we believe this to be an isolated incident and there to be no wider risk to public safety.
“We are grateful to everyone who has provided information to aid our enquiries to date, and appeal for anyone else who has not yet come forward to please contact us.”
Authorities have urged those with further information to contact them using reference number 5226215083, or anonymously through Crimestoppers.
Stand Against Racism & Inequality is assisting in offering support to the victims.