Man arrested following reported rape in Stockport park

The victim said a man had approached her and forced her to come with him, whilst holding what she believed could be a firearm

Author: Olivia DaviesPublished 10th Sep 2025
Last updated 10th Sep 2025

Greater Manchester Police have arrested a 28-year-old man from Manchester, following a report that a woman had been raped in Heaton Mersey Park, Stockport, at approximately 9.30pm last night (9 September).

Officers attended to speak to the victim immediately, and the arrest came just an hour after the report. This man has remained in custody since.

During her initial account, the victim described a man had approached her and forced her to come with him, whilst holding what she believed could be a firearm. It was once they arrived at the park that he proceeded to rape her, and she was able to get free and run to safety a short time after. The suspect fled.

Local officers are in the area conducting enquiries and to provide reassurance.

The firearm described by the victim is being assessed to determine whether it is viable.

Superintendent Dave Henthorne said; “Fortunately in Greater Manchester, stranger rape is extremely uncommon, but when instances do occur, it’s right that we work quickly and robustly to mitigate any further harm.

“What this victim has been through is nothing short of terrifying, and we have specialist officers in place to support her, which is our focus. She has been incredibly brave in coming forward.

“I hope that this swift arrest reassures the community that there is not thought to be any wider risk, but our neighbourhood officers are in place to speak to anyone who is concerned.

“Anyone who has not yet spoken to us and may have witnessed the incident is encouraged to contact us immediately on 0161 856 9932 quoting log 3668 of 9 August 2025.”

Hear all the latest news from across the UK on the hour, every hour, on Greatest Hits Radio on DAB, smartspeaker, at greatesthitsradio.co.uk, and on the Rayo app.