Woman, 18, is raped in attack on night out - as police hunt for man

Police have launched a hunt for a man who could hold the key to an investigation after a young woman was raped on a night out.

The 18-year-old was attacked in the early hours of Sunday April 28 in Newcastle city centre.

Northumbria Police launched an investigation after the horrifying ordeal was reported to them - and have identified a man they want to speak to.

Detectives say he was the area at the time of the sickening incident and believe he could hold information vital to their probe.

The woman is reported to have met her attacker while on a night out on the Saturday evening preceding the attack before he carried out the terrifying assault. 

The woman continues to be supported by specialist officers almost six months on from the attack. 

It is not known when she reported the incident to police - but officers have commended her bravery in coming forward.

Detective Constable Lisa Edwards-Clay, of Northumbria Police, said in remarks reported by Chronicle Live: 'We would like to praise the bravery that the victim has shown in coming forward and we will continue to support her in any way we can.

'We have carried out a number of lines of enquiry since we received this report and would encourage anyone with information which they think could assist us to get in touch.'

The force further said in a series of posts on X, formerly Twitter: 'Do you recognise this man? We are hoping to trace him as we investigate a rape in Newcastle. 

'We received a report that an 18-year-old woman had met a man while on a night out on Saturday, April 27.

'Between 1am and 1.30am the following morning, while still in the city centre, the man is reported to have raped the woman.

'The victim continues to be supported by specially-trained officers.'

Police have urged the man to make himself known to officers.

The force's statement continued: 'Extensive enquiries have been carried out since the report was first made and today we have released an image of man we would like to speak to. 

'He was in the area at the time the rape is reported to have taken place and believe he may be able to assist with our enquiries.

'The man, or anyone who recognises him, should (get in touch).'

Anyone with information is urged to contact Northumbria Police on 101 or via their website, quoting reference 048467B/24.