Woman assaulted by stranger while running in Gateshead as police appeal for information
by Adam Foster · ChronicleLiveOfficers are searching for a man who approached a woman out running and grabbed her by the wrists.
Shortly after 10.10am on Friday, November 15, it was reported a woman in her 20s had been running on Pipewellgate, past Dunston Staiths in Gateshead.
At an area between the Queen Elizabeth II bridge and King Edward bridge, she was approached by an unknown man, who then proceeded to assault her by grabbing her wrists.
The offender then forced the woman to the ground and made verbal threats.
She fought the man off before he fled the scene on foot, in the direction of Dunston Staiths.
The victim sustained minor bruising to her wrists, and was left shaken by the incident. She is receiving support from officers.
A full investigation has been launched by Northumbria Police and extensive enquiries are ongoing to trace the man responsible. Additional patrols are being carried out in the area and anyone with concerns is encouraged to speak with an officer on duty.
As part of their investigation, police have appealed to the public for information – and released a description of the offender. He is described as a white man, aged between 40 and 60 years old, who was smartly dressed and wearing a flat cap hat.
Detective Inspector Gillian Glenwright, of Northumbria Police, said: "Violence is never acceptable, and we are determined to bring effective justice against the person involved. We are carrying out a range of enquiries into this incident, which is of concern to us, and I am today appealing to the public for their help.
"We know this area is popular with residents and visitors alike, with many people using the route for running and walking – so we’d urge any witnesses to come forward.
"If you saw or heard anything suspicious in the area that morning, please report it to us as soon as possible. Your information – no matter how insignificant it may seem – could prove valuable to our investigation.
"As ever, we would ask the public to remain vigilant and report any concerns to police."
Anyone with information is asked to contact Northumbria Police by sending a direct message on social media, or using live chat and report forms on the force’s website.
Those unable to make contact in these ways can call 101. Please quote reference number: NP-20241115-0265.
Join our Breaking News and Top Stories WhatsApp community
Join our Breaking News and Top Stories WhatsApp community for all the latest news direct to your phone.
To join you need to have WhatsApp on your device. All you need to do is choose which community you want to join, click on the link and press 'join community'.
No one will be able to see who is signed up and no one can send messages except the ChronicleLive team.
We also treat our community members to special offers, promotions, and adverts from us and our partners.
If you don't like our community, you can check out any time you like. To leave our community click on the name at the top of your screen and choose 'exit group'.
If you’re curious, you can read our privacy notice.