Teenager punched in the face by driver who stole his bike in Hartlepool

The 18-year-old victim was threatened and punched in the face by the male driver of a Vauxhall Vivaro van which pulled up alongside him and two other teenagers at around 8.30pm last night (Monday, January 25).

The offender then stole the injured teenager’s bike.

Detectives from Hartlepool CID are now investigating an incident and have shared a picture of a bike similar to the one which has been stolen.

A spokesman for Hartlepool Neighbourhood Police Team said: “At approximately 8.30pm last night, Monday January 25, a white Vauxhall Vivaro van pulled up alongside three teenagers on York Road in the town.

“The male driver got out of the vehicle, threatened the victim, demanded money, punched the 18-year-old victim to the face then stole his bike. The victim suffered facial bruising.

"This man is described as white, 6 feet tall and of slim build. He was wearing a tracksuit and a black hat.

"No arrests have been made at this stage however we’d appeal for anyone with information, CCTV or dash cam which could help our ongoing enquiries to contact Cleveland Police via the 101 number quoting Ref 013130.”

Cleveland Police is also asking anyone who has seen the bike offered for sale to get in touch.

Those who do not want to speak to police should consider passing information anonymously to the independent charity Crimestoppers online at www.crimestoppers-uk.org/ or by phoning 0800 555 111.

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