A 13-year-old boy was rushed to hospital this afternoon (27 May) after being assaulted and having his bike stolen in broad daylight on a quiet residential street in Penhill.
The incident occurred just before 1.30pm on Charlton Close, where the teenager was struck on the head with what is believed to be a hammer before his black Carrera bike – distinguishable by its red handlebars and red pedals – was taken.
Emergency services responded quickly, and the young victim was taken to hospital to be treated for a head injury. His condition has not been publicly disclosed, but police have confirmed he suffered a notable blow to the head.
Wiltshire Police have since launched an appeal for witnesses or anyone with information that might assist their investigation. Officers have released a detailed description of two males believed to be connected to the theft.
The primary suspect is described as a white male, believed to be in his 40s, with a ginger beard and wearing a black puffer jacket. He was reportedly accompanied by a younger male, in his 20s, with blonde hair and dressed in a dark-coloured tracksuit.
A spokesperson for Wiltshire Police said: “This was a shocking and violent assault on a young boy in the middle of the day. We’re particularly keen to hear from anyone who may have seen this bike or witnessed anything unusual in the area.”
A photo of the stolen bike has been circulated in an effort to trace it. The police are urging residents to check dashcams, doorbell footage, or CCTV for anything that might help identify the individuals involved.
Anyone with information is encouraged to contact police by calling 101, quoting log number 133 of 27 May, or to speak anonymously via Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
