A serious assault investigation is underway in Middleton after a woman in her 70s was attacked in broad daylight, prompting a major police response and an appeal for information from the public.
The disturbing incident occurred at around 11:20am on Thursday, March 6, at Crow Hill South, where Greater Manchester Police were called to reports of an attack involving a suspect believed to be armed with a knife.
Although the woman escaped with minor physical injuries, she has been left deeply shaken by the ordeal, which police have described as “unprovoked.”
Swift Emergency Response and Investigation Launched
Emergency services arrived quickly on the scene to assist the victim and secure the area. A full investigation was immediately launched, with officers from Rochdale district dedicating significant resources to tracing the attacker.
Detective Inspector Kimberley Hines, who is leading the investigation, said:
“This was a shocking and unprovoked attack on a vulnerable member of our community. We are pursuing every possible line of enquiry and are determined to identify and locate the person responsible.”
Door-to-Door Enquiries and CCTV Review Underway
In the days since the incident, officers have carried out door-to-door enquiries, interviewed multiple witnesses, and begun the painstaking process of reviewing hundreds of hours of CCTV footage from the area.
Police are particularly focused on footage from local businesses and nearby residential properties, with additional personnel brought in to ensure no detail is missed.
Police Release Video Footage of Suspect
A major development in the investigation came when police released video footage of a man they wish to speak to in connection with the assault. Although the suspect’s face is not clearly visible, officers are hopeful that his clothing, build, or distinctive mannerisms might be familiar to someone in the local community.
The man was seen fleeing the scene shortly after the attack, and investigators are urging the public to help trace his movements.
Public Urged to Come Forward
Greater Manchester Police are appealing to anyone with information — no matter how small — to come forward and assist with the investigation.
- Call 101, quoting log number 1007 of 06/03/25
- Submit information anonymously via Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111
Community Reassurance
DI Hines added:
“We understand that incidents like this cause concern, especially when they happen in residential neighbourhoods. I want to reassure the public that we are doing everything in our power to keep our community safe and bring the offender to justice.”
Police have increased patrols in the area to offer reassurance and visibility, and they continue to encourage residents to report anything suspicious or relevant to the case.
