Police have launched an urgent manhunt after a man in his twenties was attacked from behind, raped, and robbed in a West Berkshire nature reserve.
The assault happened at the Padworth Common Nature Reserve car park at roughly 6:30pm on Thursday, July 9.
Thames Valley Police say the victim was approached from behind by an unknown male. During the attack, the offender also reached into the victim’s pocket and stole £50 in cash. Specially trained officers are currently supporting the victim.
Detectives have very few details to go on right now. The attacker is described only as a man with a local accent who was wearing white shoes.
Lead investigator Detective Inspector Beverley Pearse is urging anyone who was in the area to come forward. Her team is specifically trying to track down a red vehicle seen nearby around the time of the attack.
“Detectives are investigating this report thoroughly and extensively,” Pearse said. She asked anyone with dashcam footage from the area on Thursday evening to hand it over to the police immediately.
Locals can expect a heavy police presence around Padworth Common in the coming days while investigators sweep the area for clues and try to reassure the community.
Anyone with information should call Thames Valley Police on 101 and quote reference number 43260350863. You can also give information completely anonymously through Crimestoppers by calling 0800 555 111.