Merseyside Police has launched an investigation following a report that a woman was assaulted near a busy junction in Liverpool city centre during the early hours of Thursday
A woman was reportedly raped by a main road in Liverpool city centre, sparking a police investigation – with witnesses urged to come forward “as a matter of urgency”.
Merseyside Police received a report at around 12.50am on Thursday, February 20, which said the woman was reportedly assaulted at the junction of Vauxhall Road and Leeds Street some time earlier. A cordon was placed around a grassy area this morning as police continue their enquiries. The woman is currently being supported by specially trained officers.
The force said they are currently combing through CCTV footage and conducting forensic enquiries – but have also appealed for anyone who was in the area between 12.15am and 12.45am today to contact them “as a matter of urgency” if they saw or heard anything suspicious.
Detective Inspector Carla Cross said: “We take all reports of rape and sexual assault extremely seriously as we know the impact of such offences can be long-lasting on victims, and our specialist Unity team will continue to provide specialist support to the victim throughout the investigation.
“Information from the public can and often does help to gather evidence that puts dangerous offenders behind bars, and I would appeal to anyone with information to get in touch. Leeds Street is a busy thoroughfare and we know that there may have been taxis or delivery drivers in the area at the time who may have captured something significant on their dashcams.
“We also believe the woman spoke to a man in the area of Leeds Street following the assault and we would ask that man to come forward as he may be able to further assist with our investigation.”
Anyone with information which could assist the investigation is asked to send a direct message to @MerPolCC on X, or call 101 quoting reference 25000139459. Information can also be passed on anonymously to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
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