Police are urgently seeking CCTV footage following an incident where a hooded stranger attempted to grab a 14-year-old schoolgirl while she was waiting for her morning bus. The girl was on Bamburgh Road in Clavering, Hartlepool, when the suspect, described as between 5’5″ and 5’11” in height, wearing dark clothing and a hoody, lunged at her just after 8 a.m. on Wednesday, June 17.
The girl managed to escape and promptly contacted her mother, who then picked her up and ensured her safety. Although physically unharmed, the girl was understandably shaken by the encounter. The suspect’s gender and ethnicity remain unknown at this point, according to Cleveland Police.
Acting Superintendent Nick See of Hartlepool District assured that a thorough search of the area has been conducted by officers on foot, mobile patrols, and with the use of a drone. A visible police presence will be maintained as investigations progress, with a focus on ensuring safety measures in local schools. Individuals with relevant information or concerns are encouraged to approach patrolling officers.
Authorities are requesting anyone with information, as well as owners of CCTV, doorbell, or dashcam footage, to contact them at 101, quoting reference SE26116639.