Detectives have released a second CCTV image of a man wanted over two assaults in Covent Garden – one of which left a victim in his 70s with serious injuries.
The attacks happened within moments of each other on October 12 last year. At around 10.30pm, an off-duty police officer reported being punched in the back of the head close to the Royal Opera House. The officer, attached to the Central East Command Unit, was not injured.
The assailant then approached a second man, aged in his 70s, in nearby King Street. He asked him for directions, before pushing him over.
This victim suffered a bleed on his brain. He temporarily lost consciousness, and required 15 stitches to the back of the head. He is no longer in hospital but continues to suffer the effects of the assault.
The two victims were not known to each other, and the attacks appear to have been random, with no known motive.
The suspect is described as white, around 5ft 9in tall, of medium build, and wearing a black jacket. He was last seen fleeing towards Bedford Street.
Police have made a renewed appeal for information, and have released a new CCTV image of the suspect.
This shows a man shortly before the assaults.
The first image released in relation to the assault (Picture: The Met)
Detective Constable Greg Atkins, from the Central West Command Unit, said: “This incident took place in and around Covent Garden on a busy evening.
“We are making a renewed appeal for anybody with information to come forward. Do you recognise the suspect featured in the CCTV images?
“Multiple people witnessed the assaults and I would ask anyone who can assist in identifying the person responsible to get in contact.”
There has been no arrest and enquiries are ongoing.
Anyone with information that could assist police should call 101, quoting CAD reference 7846/12OCT.
To make an anonymous report, contact the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
Pictured top: The new CCTV image released as appeals are renewed (Picture: The Met)