Police are searching for four individuals believed to be key witnesses after a woman was raped in Taunton. The incident occurred on Thursday, August 8, when two unidentified men lured a woman towards a vehicle on South Street around 12.15am.
The men forced the victim into the car where she was raped. The woman managed to break free from her attackers and sought help from a dog walker to find her way home. The dog walker is described as a white individual with blonde hair, walking a black dog.
Avon and Somerset Police have released CCTV footage of four individuals who are thought to hold crucial information that could assist the investigation. The four individuals captured on camera include a woman walking a medium-sized dog with a fluorescent harness, a man in shorts, a man carrying a large backpack, and a woman walking a small dog.
The suspects are both described as being of mixed heritage, approximately 6ft tall and in their late 30s. One man was described as being of large build, with black hair and a moustache. He was wearing a red polo shirt, had a tattoo on the back of his neck and was wearing a silver chain, reports Somerset Live.
The second suspect is described as being of slim build with black hair. He had several piercings and no facial hair. They were believed to be driving a small, dark car. Investigations into the incident are ongoing and officers are providing support to the victim throughout the investigation.
Neighbourhood Inspector Jonathan Eamer said: “We understand this can be a very alarming and distressing incident in the local community but we believe this to be an isolated incident with no further reports of this nature. We are supporting the victim during this time and commend her for her bravery in coming forward.
“We are appealing for the woman who came to the victim’s aid to come forward. We are also asking anyone who was driving or lives in South Street, Taunton, who may have dashcam, doorbell or CCTV footage to get in touch as soon as possible.”
He urged those who could assist to contact the authorities: “If you can aid the investigation, please call 101 and quote reference 5224207440.”