Essex: Police appeal after train attack (From Maldon and Burnham Standard)

Essex: Police appeal after train attack

8:48am Thursday 13th September 2012 in Local News

British Transport Police (BTP) detectives are appealing for information after a family, returning home from celebrating a birthday in London, was attacked by three men onboard an Essex-bound train.

Investigators have today released CCTV images of three men they would like to identify in connection with the assault, which took place on Saturday, 18 August.

Detective Constable Jon Howlett, the investigating officer, said: “The family of four, including mum (64), dad (65) and two brothers (31 and 38) all from Goodmayes, had spent the day in London celebrating their father’s birthday, along with a family friend, when they boarded the 10.50pm Liverpool Street to Shenfield service to return home.

“During the journey, three men, who also boarded at Liverpool Street, began to verbally abuse one of the sons.

His brother then stood up in a bid to defend him but was suddenly attacked by one of the men.

The other two men then joined in the attack, before the mum and dad stepped in but were also assaulted, along with the family friend.

“During the ordeal, one of the brothers’ hands was hit, causing a fracture.

“As the service pulled into Manor Park station, the suspects left the train and headed out from the station.”

As a result of the attack all family members had to attend hospital suffering from shock, cuts and severe bruising.

It is believed the trio who police are keen to identify may have links to Romford, Essex.

Detective Howlett added: “This was a sudden and violent attack which not only ruined a family’s celebration, but also left them hospitalised.

“Although incidents like this are extremely rare on the rail network, we are taking this extremely seriously.

"I’d appeal for anyone who may have been on that service and witnessed this horrific attack, or who recognises any of the men pictured to come forward and assist officers in this investigation.”

Anyone with any information is asked to contact British Transport Police on 0800 40 50 40 quoting background reference B9/LNA of 06/09/2012.

Information can also be passed to the independent charity Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111.