Girl injured in 'sickening' assault by group of youths in Bristol
Police appeal for witnesses following assault being treated as a hate crime
Last updated 5th Mar 2026
An investigation is underway after a girl in her mid-teens was assaulted by several youths in Bristol.
The attack occurred around 7.45pm last night in Philadelphia Street, situated in the Broadmead and Cabot Circus area.
The girl was taken to hospital with injuries that are not life-threatening.
Described as a distressing situation, authorities have ensured the victim and her family have access to safeguarding support services.
Police have completed an area search and are gathering witness statements, with ongoing CCTV reviews and intelligence checks.
The incident is currently being treated as a hate crime.
The group of suspects are believed to be teenage boys and two girls of mixed heritage, wearing dark clothing.
Neighbourhood chief inspector Keith Smith, from Avon and Somerset Police, said:
“This sickening incident will understandably cause concern in our communities, and we want to reassure the public that an investigation is being carried out at pace to identify those responsible.
“At this stage, it is not yet clear what prompted the assault. We are aware of information suggesting there may have been an exchange beforehand about which schools those involved attend, and we are keeping an open mind as to whether that is connected.
“We are treating this matter with the utmost seriousness and are working closely with schools and relevant partners, including Bristol City Council. Many parents will have noticed an increased police presence around schools over the past week, and they should expect this to continue in the coming days so that neighbourhood officers are on hand to speak with anyone who has concerns.
“We urge anyone with information about the identity of those involved to come forward and assist our enquiries.”
The authorities have been working closely with schools and community partners, ensuring heightened police presence around schools to address concerns.