Masked man randomly attacked stranger in Newbottle rape, police say as investigation continues

An investigation was launched after a woman was raped in the Newbottle area in an ‘appalling’ attack which occurred between 10.30pm and 10.40pm on Monday, July 27.

A white male, who was unknown to the victim, is believed to have fled the scene wearing a dark face mask and dark hoodie immediately after the sexual assault.

The search to identify the masked man continues but police have confirmed a 29-year-old man has been questioned and is being treated as a person of interest at this stage.

Detective Chief Inspector Louise Cass-Williams says this is believed to be a random attack and it is being treated as an isolated incident – confirming there is no information to suggest the offender will strike again.

An ‘appalling’ attack

The sexual assault was reported immediately to police and officers were on the scene within minutes, Northumbria Police say.

DCI Cass-Williams said: "We have spoken to a 29-year-old male. We wish to expand our inquiries further and I am appealing to members of the local community to contact us if they have any information of any males in the area, between around 9.30pm and 10.40pm on the evening – as well as any other suspicious activity they would wish to report to police.

"This was an incredibly appalling attack. Due to the nature of this attack, I wish to reassure members of the public that we have experienced teams of detectives working on this incident.”

Northumbria Police says there has been increased patrols in the area and urge members of the community to speak to officers if they have questions.

An isolated incident

When asked if there was a wider risk to the public, DCI Cass-Williams said: “I understand there is concern but I do need to stress that we are not asking anyone to change their routines at this point.

"There is no information that would suggest there will be another attack of this nature, and there is no information to suggest there is any previous incident that we would link it to either.

"I do hope that does give some reassurance to the members of the community.

"The victim is being supported by specialist officers as well. It has been an appalling attack for her and of course we wish to give her the upmost support throughout this very difficult time and we will continue to do so."

No detail is insignificant

Northumbria Police are appealing for anyone who may have any information to come forward.

"Members of the community may think that the information they have is insignificant and I can assure them it is not,” added the DCI, who has been with the force for more than 25 years.

"We wish to hear from them and let us establish what information they have so please so contact us.

"The most important thing is to ensure we identify this person and we bring that person to justice as swiftly as possible."

Anyone with information should call 101 quoting log 1205 27/07/20 or call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.

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