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Police are renewing their appeal for information after a man in his 20s was brutally assaulted on a footpath near Tunbridge Wells last month. The victim suffered multiple head injuries, including deep cuts and a bleed on the brain, and remains in hospital.
He was discovered by a member of the public in a distressed and confused state on a Rusthall footpath on Thursday, January 23, 2025. The attack occurred in woodland near Rusthall Road and the cricket pitch.
Detectives have now confirmed the victim’s walk began on Sunnyside Road, and the assault took place between 7:30 pm and 7:40 pm. He regularly used this route across the common.
Detective Inspector Adrian Safiani said.
“The victim is thankfully slowly recovering from this violent assault, although unfortunately is not yet able to provide us with an account of what happened. We do know that he left his home on his own and was taking a route through the common, which he had regularly walked many times before.”
Given the severity of the injuries, DI Safiani believes the attacker likely returned home with blood on them.
“Due to the nature of the injuries, there is every chance that whoever did this returned home with blood on their hands, clothing or shoes. I would urge anyone who believes they may know the suspect to do the right thing and contact us.”
Officers have conducted extensive CCTV searches in the area, but are now asking residents to check their own security cameras.
DI Safiani added:
“Our officers have carried out extensive checks for CCTV at nearby homes and local businesses, but we are still also urging residents to please check doorbell cameras and private security systems for anything which may appear suspicious, particularly between the times of 7:30 pm and 8:00 pm.”
Anyone with information is urged to call the appeal line on 01622 604100, quoting reference 46/13054/25. Crimestoppers can also be contacted anonymously on 0800 555111, or via their online form.