Autistic man has jaw broken in ‘disgusting and unprovoked attack’

A missing Colchester teenager has been found safe Picture: SARAH LUCY BROWN (Image: Archant)

A 28-year-old man who lives with autism was in Colchester town centre with his carer when they were set upon by a random passer-by.

The pair were driving along East Stockwell Street at 6pm when a man passing by the car asked if the autistic man had been laughing at him.

Both the victim and his carer assured the man that he wasn’t but the suspect proceeded to punch the victim in the face and run off.

He fled, moving away from the town centre.

The victim, who has been described as having severe autism, was taken to hospital with a broken jaw.

His father has said that the attack, which happened on November 21, has had a serious affect on his wellbeing.

He said: “My son has severe autism and learning difficulties. A lot of effort has been made to get him out into the community and this incident has set him back significantly.”

Investigating officers from Essex Police have been reviewing CCTV footage of the assault and have issued an appeal for witnesses to step forward.

Detective constable Jonathan Robinson of the Colchester CID said: “This was a disgusting and unprovoked attack on a vulnerable man that has left him very distressed.

“I have been reviewing CCTV in an attempt to identify the suspect, and am now asking for the public’s help to try and find this individual.

“He was described as white, aged 40 to 45, and of large build. He wore a hat and dark clothing.

“He was with another man, who was described as white, aged 40 to 45, and bald. He wore a white shirt or jacket and dark trousers.”

Anyone who saw the incident and has not yet come forward, or has any information about who is responsible, is asked to call Colchester CID on 101 quoting reference 42/170376/18.

Alternatively, contact the Crimestoppers charity 100% anonymously on 0800 555 111.

You can also submit an anonymous online form on the Crimstoppers website.