Police appeal for key witnesses after unprovoked Gosport assault

Friday, 28 August 2026 08:00

By Philip Keeler

Police are appealing for key witnesses following an unprovoked assault in Gosport which left a 22-year-old man with serious facial injuries.

Hampshire and Isle of Wight Constabulary says the attack happened between 9.30pm and 9.45pm on Friday, 14 August, on Walpole Road, outside the entrance to the Morrisons car park and close to the junction with Creek Road.

Police were told that a man ran towards the victim and, without any verbal exchange or apparent provocation, punched him in the face.

The victim suffered a fractured cheekbone and an injury to his eye which police say is still affecting his vision.

The suspect is described as white, around 45 years old, approximately six feet tall and of stocky build, with brown hair and facial stubble. He was wearing a blue top and light grey jeans.

After the assault, the man ran away and passed a group of people who were nearby.

Police say another man then approached the victim and spoke to him. Officers believe this man may be known to the suspect, although he was not involved in the assault.

The man gave his name as “Tony” and is described as white, in his late 30s to early 40s, short and stocky, with short dark hair and facial stubble.

He had been part of a group which included women described as wearing sparkly dresses.

Officers are urging Tony and anyone else in the group to come forward so they can establish what they witnessed.

Anyone with information about the assault, or who recognises any of the people described, is asked to call police on 101, quoting reference 44260395318.

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