Delivery driver in hospital with 'multiple injuries' after attack in Sunderland

Northumbria Police detectives have appealed to the public for information after the takeaway driver was assaulted in a robbery in the Marley Potts area of the city.

The victim – a man – was delivering food to an address on Yewtree Avenue when he was attacked by someone who then took the keys to his vehicle.

After a struggle, the victim – who also works as a taxi driver – was dragged down the road, suffering fractured ribs as well as injuries to his head and chest.

He was taken to hospital.

His vehicle was later abandoned and discovered by officers in the Witherwack area.

A 37-year-old man was arrested on suspicion of robbery. He has since been released under investigation.

Police are now asking anybody who witnessed the incident on Yewtree Avenue, or anybody who saw a blue Skoda Octavia taxi being driven in the Marley Potts or Witherwack areas on Tuesday, June 9, to come forward.

The robbery happened at around 3am that day.

Detective Constable Jodie Faulkner said: “This was an incredibly serious incident that resulted in the victim being hospitalised with multiple injuries.

“We are committed to ensuring those responsible for this appalling attack are brought to justice, and an experienced team of officers are following various lines of inquiry.

“We are now asking the public to assist us with the investigation. If you saw this incident – or saw a blue Skoda Octavia taxi driving in the area between 3am and 6am, please get in touch with us.

“Your information, however small or insignificant you feel it may be, could prove the key to making sure the offenders responsible are located and put before the courts.”

Anyone with information is asked to call 101 or use the ‘Tell Us Something’ page of the Northumbria Police website quoting log 114 090620.

Alternatively, you can email [email protected] or ring independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.

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