Manhunt Underway After Woman in Her 20s Allegedly Sexually Assaulted at Oxford Shopping Centre as Police Release CCTV Image
Police have launched an investigation after a woman in her 20s reported being sexually assaulted at a shopping centre in Oxford, with officers now appealing to the public for help identifying a man captured on CCTV.
The alleged incident took place at around 3pm on June 30 at Templars Square Shopping Centre in Cowley, Oxford. According to police, the woman reported that she had been inappropriately touched over her clothing while inside the shopping centre.
More than two months after the alleged incident, investigators have released a CCTV image of a man they believe could have important information that may assist their inquiry. The photograph shows a man with dark, unkempt hair and facial hair, wearing sunglasses on top of his head and what appears to be a pink or light-coloured shirt over a darker top.
Police are stressing, however, that the man pictured has not been identified as a suspect. His photograph has been released because investigators believe he may have information relevant to what happened. The release of a CCTV image alone does not mean the person shown has committed an offence.
The appeal comes as officers continue trying to establish exactly what happened inside the busy shopping centre that afternoon. CCTV footage can be particularly important in investigations of alleged incidents in public places because it may help investigators establish movements, identify potential witnesses and build a clearer timeline.
The investigating officer, PC Emily Rice, has urged the man pictured—or anyone who recognises him—to come forward and speak with police. Members of the public who may have witnessed anything unusual around the shopping centre at the relevant time are also being encouraged to contact investigators.
As of the latest available information, no arrests have been made in connection with the allegation. Thames Valley Police are treating the matter as an ongoing investigation.
Anyone who believes they recognise the person in the CCTV image or has information that could assist the investigation is being asked to contact police via 101, quoting reference 43260331880. Information can also be passed anonymously to Crimestoppers.
The case highlights the importance of members of the public coming forward when police release CCTV appeals. Even seemingly minor details—such as seeing someone at a particular location or remembering a person’s clothing—can potentially help investigators piece together events.
For now, officers are continuing to establish the circumstances surrounding the alleged assault, while the person shown in the released image remains someone police want to speak to rather than an identified offender.
