Police would like to talk to these men

Police searching for men who hospitalised Goodmayes family in birthday train attack

Lizzie Dearden, Reporter Thursday, September 13, 2012
10:30 AM

Police are searching for three men after a Goodmayes family were hospitalised in a train attack while they were travelling home from a birthday day out.

The 65-year-old father had been in London on August 18 to celebrate his birthday with his wife, 64, two sons aged 31 and 38 and a family friend.

The group caught the 10.50pm Shenfield train from Liverpool Street to return home but three men in the carriage started to verbally abuse one of the sons.

When his brother stood up to defend him he was attacked by one of the men, who hit and fractured his hand.

The other two men joined the attack and when the man’s parents and friend stepped in they were assaulted.

All family members had to be taken hospital with shock, cuts and severe bruising.

The suspects got off the train at Manor Park and left the station. They are believed to have links to the Romford area.

Detective Constable Jon Howlett, the investigating officer, said: “This was a sudden and violent attack which not only ruined a family’s celebration, but also left them hospitalised.

“Although incidents like this are extremely rare on the rail network, we are taking this extremely seriously.

“I’d appeal for anyone who may have been on that service and witnessed this horrific attack, or who recognises any of the men pictured to come forward and assist officers in this investigation.”

Call British Transport Police on 0800 40 50 40 quoting background reference B9/LNA of 06/09/2012 with information, or call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.