A man suffered serious facial injuries after he was targeted in a brutal homophobic attack.
Merseyside Police received reports that a man was assaulted on Church Street in Liverpool City Centre at around 4am on Monday, May 16. The victim, a man in his 60s, was verbally abused before being struck a number of times in the face by another man.
The victim suffered serious facial injuries and bruising over his body. The alleged offender, accompanied by a second man, left the scene soon after the incident. The assault is being treated as a hate crime.
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Detectives have now issued a CCTV image of a man they believe could have information to assist with their inquiries. CCTV and witness enquiries are ongoing to identify the suspect.
Detective Inspector Tony Roberts said: “It’s extremely disappointing that during Pride month, when we are celebrating tolerance in our communities, a man appears to have been targeted because of his sexuality. To be attacked in such a manner is despicable, and we’re determined to find those responsible and remove them from our streets.
“This incident took place on Church Street and we believe it was busy with people still around leaving clubs, so if you were in the vicinity at around 4am on Monday 16 May and saw anything, then please contact us.
"I am also appealing for people to come forward if you recognise the male featured in the image. We believe he could hold information that could be vital to our continuing enquiries.”
Anyone with information on this incident is asked to contact @MerPolCC on Twitter or ‘Merseyside Police Contact Centre’ on Facebook with reference 22000334754.
