DETECTIVES investigating a serious assault in Warrington town centre, when a man received serious facial injuries during an argument over a cigarette, are appealing for witnesses.
The incident occurred between 4.30am and 4.50am on Sunday, May 5, when two men were talking to each other on Academy Way, near to DW Sports Fitness on Bank Street, when they were approached by a stranger asking for a cigarette.
They told him that they did not have any cigarettes and an argument ensued.
The stranger then punched one of the men – a 22-year-old from Liverpool – in the face.
The victim was taken to hospital with serious facial injuries that require ongoing medical treatment.
The offender is described as a white male estimated to be aged between 17 and 22 years old. He was around 5’ 6” tall with a slim build, had short hair, was wearing a pink or red top and a dark tracksuit and spoke with a Warrington accent.
Enquiries in relation to the incident are ongoing and detectives are appealing for anyone who was in the area and witnesses the incident, or saw anything else that may aid their investigation, to get in touch.
They also want to speak to anyone who believes they may know who the offender is or have CCTV or dashcam footage of him.
Detective Constable John Parry, of Warrington CID, said: “The victim was assaulted on a night out in the town centre and sustained serious facial injuries that require ongoing medical treatment.
“The incident has understandably left him extremely shaken up and we are determined to establish who assaulted him and make them face the consequences of their actions.
“Enquiries are ongoing and as part of our investigation we are appealing for anyone who believes they may have information or footage regarding the offender or the incident itself to come forward.
“The same goes for anyone who has CCTV or dashcam footage that may be relevant to our investigation.
“With there having been a number of taxis parked up near to where the incident took place, we are particularly keen to speak to any taxi drivers who witnessed what took place.”
Anyone with information or CCTV footage that may help the ongoing investigation should call Cheshire Constabulary on 101, quoting IML 392725, give the details via https://cheshire.police.uk/contact/general-enquiries or contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.
Dashcam footage can be submitted online at www.cheshire.police.uk/advice-and-support/roads-and-vehicle-safety/submit-dashcam-footage
