CCTV Appeal After Man Kicked and Burned in Crawley Station Attack

A man in his 30s suffered potentially life-changing chemical burns after being attacked by a group of men at Crawley railway station late at night. Officers from British Transport Police were called to the station just after 11.20pm on Saturday, 7 March, following reports that a man had been assaulted by three men. Police say […]

A man in his 30s suffered potentially life-changing chemical burns after being attacked by a group of men at Crawley railway station late at night.

Officers from British Transport Police were called to the station just after 11.20pm on Saturday, 7 March, following reports that a man had been assaulted by three men.

Police say the victim was approached and attacked by the group, with one of the suspects throwing a substance at him. The victim was then chased before falling over and being kicked by the men, who fled the scene.

Emergency services attended and the victim was taken to hospital with chemical burn injuries described as potentially life-changing. He has since been discharged.

Specialist testing later confirmed the substance used in the attack was corrosive.

Detective Constable Billy Burstow said:
“We want to acknowledge the level of concern this shocking incident has caused in the local community. We have been conducting extensive enquiries – including speaking to witnesses, specialist forensic work and CCTV examination – and have been working closely with colleagues at Sussex Police to identify those responsible.”

He added that officers do not believe there is any wider risk to the public.

“I want to reassure residents that we don’t believe there to be any wider risk to the community, and that this is being treated as an isolated incident involving two parties who were not previously known to each other.”

Police confirmed that one man has been arrested in connection with the incident. Detectives have also released images of two men they believe may be able to assist with their investigation.

Anyone who recognises the men is asked to contact British Transport Police by texting 61016 quoting reference 851 of 7 March, or by calling 0800 40 50 40.

Information can also be given anonymously to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.