A 25-year-old man has been arrested on suspicion of rape following a late-night attack on a teenage girl in a North Somerset village, as police launch an urgent witness appeal.
The victim, believed to be in her late teens, was assaulted in the Rooksbridge area at approximately 1am on 16 March before managing to escape and receive help from a passing member of the public.
Avon and Somerset Police have released the suspect on conditional bail whilst their investigation continues, with detectives now working to trace witnesses who may have been in the area during the early hours of that morning.
Officers are particularly keen to speak to a woman described as wearing a lanyard and accompanied by a small child, who was approached by another woman asking for directions to Bridgwater. Investigators believe this encounter could be significant to their enquiry.
Motorists who travelled through Rooksbridge, Loxton, Sevier Road and Axbridge between 6am and 7.45am on the morning of the attack are being urged to check dashcam footage for anything that might assist detectives.
Police are also appealing for anyone who may have seen a woman walking alone in rural areas during those hours to come forward with information.
Neighbourhoods’ Inspector Charmaine Dyne confirmed the victim is receiving ongoing support from specialist services as a comprehensive investigation unfolds.
“A thorough investigation is underway, and we remain in contact with the victim who has been offered access to specialist support services,” Inspector Dyne stated.
She added: “We want to remind people that any violence towards women and girls will not be tolerated, and any victim of a sexual offence will be heard, believed, and supported.”
The force has already spoken to the member of the public who assisted the teenager immediately after the attack, with their account forming part of the ongoing investigation.
Detectives believe information from drivers passing through the area during the specified timeframe could prove crucial to establishing a complete timeline of events and identifying potential witnesses.
The incident has prompted police to reiterate their commitment to tackling violence against women and girls, with enhanced support mechanisms available for victims of sexual offences.
Authorities are treating the investigation as a priority and have deployed specialist officers to support the victim whilst gathering evidence.
Anyone with information, dashcam footage, or who believes they encountered the woman seeking directions is urged to contact Avon and Somerset Police immediately to assist with enquiries.
The investigation remains active as police work to build a comprehensive picture of the circumstances surrounding the attack.
