A cyclist was left shaken after a shocking and unprovoked attack on North Bridge Street in Sunderland on the morning of Sunday, March 23, prompting a police investigation and public appeal for witnesses.
The incident occurred at approximately 8:40am as the victim was cycling toward Sunderland city centre. According to reports, the assailant – believed to be riding a moped – struck the cyclist over the head and attempted to push him off his bike while filming the assault. The attack has caused concern among residents and sparked a wider conversation about cyclist safety in the city.
Victim’s Family Shares Chilling Account
The victim’s wife took to social media shortly after the incident to warn other cyclists and appeal for information. “My husband was cycling along North Bridge Street when he was attacked by a little piece of scum on a moped,” she wrote. “They hit him over the head and tried to push him off his bike while filming it.”
Although the victim was not physically injured, his wife described him as “visibly shaken,” adding that it takes a lot to unsettle him — a testament to the disturbing nature of the attack. Frustration grew further when it emerged that no bystanders stepped in to help during the incident.
She ended her post with a plea to the public: “I know it’s a long shot, but if anyone was in the area and saw it or has dash cam footage, please help.”
Police Investigation Underway
Northumbria Police have confirmed they are investigating the incident and are urging anyone with information or footage to come forward. While no suspect has been identified so far, officers are calling on drivers and witnesses in the area at the time to check dash cams and report any sightings.
In similar investigations, police forces across the UK have relied heavily on platforms like the National Dash Cam Safety Portal, supported by Nextbase UK, which allows members of the public to securely upload footage directly to their local police force.
“We take these incidents seriously,” a spokesperson for Northumbria Police said. “Anyone with dash cam footage or who witnessed the incident is encouraged to contact us via 101 or upload material through the Dash Cam Safety Portal.”
Cycling Community Reacts
The attack has sparked strong reactions online, particularly among Sunderland’s cycling community. Many expressed concern over road safety and called for increased police presence on major routes. One user wrote, “This is why I hesitate to ride in the city — too many reckless people.” Others praised the cyclist’s resilience but lamented the lack of action from bystanders during the incident.
The brazen nature of the attack — and the fact that it was reportedly filmed by the assailant — has left many alarmed, suggesting a troubling motive beyond mere intimidation.
Wider Concerns Over Cyclist Safety
This disturbing assault follows a number of recent incidents across the UK highlighting the vulnerability of cyclists. In February, a similar attack in Edinburgh left a rider hospitalised, while in previous years, dash cam evidence has helped secure convictions in dangerous driving and assault cases.
Northumbria Police have previously shown a proactive approach to managing public disorder, notably during the August 2024 Sunderland riots when officers processed more than 20,000 social media messages and hours of CCTV footage to identify suspects. A similar effort could be crucial in identifying the moped attacker.
How the Public Can Help
Police are appealing for anyone who was in the North Bridge Street area around 8:40am on Sunday, March 23 to come forward. Dash cam footage, eyewitness accounts, or any other information could be vital in tracking down the suspect.
Footage can be submitted via the National Dash Cam Safety Portal, or you can contact Northumbria Police via 101, quoting the date and location of the incident.
