Key witness sought by police after woman raped in Bristol

UPDATE: The witness has come forward.

Police officers are looking to identify a man who they believe is a key witness to a suspected rape. An image of the man they wish to identify, has been released and police have asked the public's help to identify him.

A woman was attacked near Snuff Mills in the Stapleton area of the city between 10.30pm and 11.20pm on Friday, March 22. A member of the public intervened and took her home.

The member of public who helped the woman was driving a blue car at the time of the incident. The victim was taken to hospital and is being supported by specialists.

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The suspected offender is described as a black man who was driving a black Audi. Efforts to locate him are currently ongoing.

DC Alastair Lea, of our specialist team of rape and serious sexual offence investigators, Operation Bluestone, said: “This was a terrifying incident and one which we are taking incredibly seriously.

“We believe this was an isolated incident, however we’re working tirelessly to identify the person responsible and our investigation is well underway. The pictured man is a potential significant witness and we believe they could help our enquiries.”

Officers are now looking to identify him for key information. Anyone who recognises him, or has any other information which could assist officers should call 101 quoting the reference number 5224074730.

Victims of rape or sexual assault, recent or non-recent, can self-refer to The Bridge, a Sexual Assault Referral Centre available 24/7 365 days a year. Visit or call 0117 342 6999.