Police hunt thugs in street attacks
MERSEYSIDE police are appealing for information after several young men were involved in unprovoked attacks after nights out in Southport town centre.
Emergency services were called at about 6am on Sunday, after reports two 18-year-old men were punched by an unknown group of men after leaving a nightclub.
Both received head and facial injuries and one was taken to Southport and Formby District hospital for treatment. The assaults took place at the junction of Lord Street and Waverley Street, near Starbucks on the corner. CCTV and witness inquiries are now ongoing.
Det Ch Insp Gayle Rooney said: “This was a nasty assault involving two groups of males, and we’re looking to find out exactly what went on. Thankfully, neither victim was seriously injured but, as we have sadly seen, the consequences of a single punch can be devastating.
“We’re determined to find those responsible and bring them before the courts. Were you at this junction around 6am or passing by in a vehicle? Your CCTV or dashcam footage could be absolutely vital in identifying the perpetrators.”
Information can be passed via the police social media desk @MerPolCC, 101 or Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111 with reference 199 of February 16.
A similar incident took place the week before, not far away, outside the Beach Bar, in Waverley Street. At 4.45am on Saturday,
February 5, officers were called to reports of a fight that had broken out after an argument.
An 18-year-old man received injuries to his hands and face.
Det Ch Insp Rooney said: “From our initial inquiries, this appears to have been an unprovoked attack resulting in injuries to a young man.
“There will have been other people present, in the vicinity of the Beach Bar, so I’d ask those who saw this attack to come forward and tell us what you know.
“We will be carrying out extensive inquiries to ensure the person responsible is removed from the streets, and so people are able to enjoy a safe night out in Southport.”
Anyone who witnessed the incident is asked to contact @MerPolCC, 101 or Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111, quoting reference 20000099789.