Police have launched an urgent manhunt for two men suspected of carrying out a brutal acid attack in Plymouth, after they were captured on CCTV in the village of Grittleton, near Chippenham.
The incident occurred in the early hours of Friday morning, 21 February, at a property on Lipson Road, Plymouth. A man in his 20s was left with life-threatening injuries after being attacked with a corrosive substance. He remains in critical condition in hospital, with medical teams fighting to save his life.
Suspects Traced to Grittleton
The two suspects, described as black males in their early 20s, were last seen wearing black clothing. Following the assault, they were spotted on CCTV in Grittleton, approximately seven miles northwest of Chippenham, leading police to believe they may have traveled north after the attack.
Detective Inspector Sarah Langley from Devon and Cornwall Police, who is leading the investigation, said: “This was a horrific and targeted attack that has left a young man fighting for his life. We are doing everything we can to trace those responsible and are appealing for the public’s help.”
“The CCTV footage shows the two men in Grittleton following the attack. We believe they may have traveled there soon after leaving Plymouth and are urging anyone who may have seen these individuals or noticed anything suspicious to come forward.”
Public Urged to Stay Vigilant
Authorities are urging members of the public not to approach the suspects if spotted but instead to contact the police immediately.
Description of the Suspects:
- Both males are described as black, aged in their early 20s.
- They were last seen wearing black clothing.
- They may still be in the Wiltshire area or could have traveled further afield.
How to Report Information:
- Call Devon and Cornwall Police: 101, quoting reference 452/21FEB
- Crimestoppers: Report information anonymously by calling 0800 555 111 or visiting www.crimestoppers-uk.org
Support for the Victim
The victim’s family has been informed and is receiving support from specialist officers. Police have also assured the public that they are working closely with Wiltshire Police and other agencies to locate the suspects as swiftly as possible.
Appeal for Witnesses
Officers are particularly keen to hear from anyone in the Grittleton area who may have dashcam footage, CCTV, or doorbell camera recordings from the early hours of Friday, 21 February, that could help trace the suspects’ movements.
DI Langley added: “We understand incidents like this cause immense concern in the community. We want to reassure residents that we are dedicating significant resources to this investigation and will continue working tirelessly until these individuals are apprehended.”
The investigation is ongoing, and police have vowed to provide further updates as new information becomes available.