Boy, 13, attacked in Fishersgate on way to school

A man is reported to have attacked a 13-year-old boy and tried to grab his school bag in Fishersgate this morning (Friday 23 September).

Sussex Police said that officers were investigating a report of a common assault in St Aubyns Road, Fishersgate, at about 7.45am.

The boy was on his way to school when a man is alleged to have approached him from behind and made a grab for his school bag, before the boy ran off.

The suspect was described as black, 30 to 40 years old, of a fit and muscular build, bald and wearing a tight black top and jeans.

The victim also said that he saw a black car parked near by, possibly a Peugeot, with a white man with grey hair sitting inside.

Sussex Police said that it was not known at this stage if the sighting was linked or whether the two men were known to each other.

Detective Sergeant Colin O’Hare, from West Sussex CID, said: “We are in the early stages of investigating this incident.

“The boy was not hurt or threatened but he is obviously quite shaken and is receiving support from officers.

“We are keeping an open mind as to the suspect’s motive but we have no evidence at this stage to suggest this was an attempt to abduct the child or that children in the area are at any increased risk.

“It appears to be an isolated incident.

“Neighbourhood police officers are conducting house-to-house inquiries and liaising with the school and detectives are viewing CCTV as part of the investigation.”

Anyone who saw the incident or who has any information is asked to call Sussex Police on 0845 6070999 or the independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111.