Manhunt as thug leaves pensioner in hospital after 'unprovoked' New Year's Eve attack

Patrick Grafton-Green6 February 2018
WEST END FINAL

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Police have launched a manhunt after a 79-year-old man was left in hospital following a “completely unprovoked” New Year’s Eve attack in north London.

The pensioner was left with a substantial laceration to his head and a fractured hip following the assault in Archway, Scotland Yard said.

They have issued CCTV footage of a man they would like to speak in connection with the incident.

Emergency services were called at about 2.50pm on December 31 last year to reports of an altercation in Highgate Hill.

The victim of the assault was rushed to hospital
Met Police

The victim and the suspect had been in McDonald’s near Archway Tube station and briefly exchanged words before the suspect left.

The victim left a short time later and the suspect turned around, walked towards him and punched him in the face, causing him to fall to the ground.

Police want to speak to this man
Met Office

Police said the suspect then made off in the direction of Holloway Road and Archway Tube station.

The victim was rushed to hospital by paramedics after suffering a deep laceration across his forehead and a fractured hip.

Police have issued CCTV footage after the attack
Met Police

Detective Constable Darren Burt, of the Central North Command Unit, said: "This appears to have been a completely unprovoked attack on an innocent man, whose life may now be changed forever due to his injuries.

"Over a month later, the victim is still in hospital following hip surgery. We urge anyone who recognises this man or has any information to come forward and contact police."

The suspect is described as a white man, of average build, aged between 30 and 40 years old. He has short dark hair with a receding hairline.

Anyone with information should contact police on 101 quoting CAD 4091/31 December. Alternatively, contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 or online at crimestoppers-uk.org

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