Updated appeal following serious assault on footpath near Tunbridge Wells

Detectives are renewing an appeal for information into an assault near Tunbridge Wells which left a man suffering multiple head injuries.

The victim was found by a member of public in a distressed and confused state on a Rusthall footpath last month and remains in hospital. The assault happened in woodland leading from Rusthall Road and near to the cricket pitch, on Thursday 23 January 2025.

Investigating officers have now established that the victim, in his 20s, had been out for a walk which started in Sunnyside Road. He was assaulted between 7.30pm and 7.40pm and received multiple deep cuts to his head, as well as a bleed to the brain.

Bloodied clothing or shoes

Detective Inspector Adrian Safiani said:

‘The victim is now 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. ‘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.'

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 7.30pm and 8pm.’

Can you help?

Anyone with information is urged to call the appeal line on 01622 604100 quoting reference 46/13054/25.

You can also contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111 or complete the online form.