Second arrest as police investigate series of assaults in Bristol's Castle Park
A number of attacks in the city centre park are being investigated
A second arrest has been made as police continue to investigate a series of assaults in Castle Park, in Bristol.
On 12th December, officers arrested a 24-year-old man on suspicion of assault. He has since been released on conditional bail while enquiries continue.
The police now believe a fifth incident may be linked to the series, with all five occurring between 30th November and 5th December.
What is known about the incidents?
The first attack took place at around 1am on 30th November, when a man in his twenties was approached by two men who shone a bright light in his eyes and briefly grabbed him. The victim escaped without injury.
Soon after that, a second man in his forties was struck over the head after a similar approach. Although he fell and sustained serious injuries, they are not considered life-threatening or life-changing.
Two further incidents were reported in the early hours of 3rd December between 12.30am and 1.30am, affecting men in their forties and twenties. Neither required medical treatment.
Most recently, on 5th December around 11.30pm, a man in his thirties was assaulted and needed medical treatment. He was discharged from hospital following the attack.
Ongoing investigation
Descriptions of the suspects remain limited due to the time of night of the incidents. Victims who provided details described the offenders as primarily one white man and one black man, often wearing face coverings and dark clothing.
A dedicated operation with senior oversight from an Assistant Chief Constable continues.
There is concern the assaults may have been homophobic in nature, and police stated their commitment to engaging with local LGBTQ+ leaders while supporting victims and keeping the public informed.
Bristol Neighbourhood Detective Superintendent Keith Smith said public safety remains a top priority and emphasised there is “absolutely no place for hate crime” in the city.
He said regular foot patrols of Castle Park will continue to reassure the community and deter any further attacks.
A previously arrested 32-year-old man remains on bail in connection with the 5th December assault.