Man Suffers Chemical Burns After Brutal Attack at Crawley Railway Station

Police have issued an appeal for information after a man suffered serious chemical burn injuries during a violent attack at Crawley railway station.

Emergency services were called to the station shortly after 11.20pm on Saturday 7 March following reports that a man in his 30s had been assaulted by a group of three men. During the incident, one of the attackers threw a substance at the victim before the group chased him.

As the victim attempted to flee, he fell to the ground and was then kicked by the men before they ran from the scene. He was taken to hospital for treatment to injuries described as potentially life-changing chemical burns and was later discharged.

Investigators later confirmed that the liquid thrown at the victim had been tested and identified as a corrosive substance.

British Transport Police say extensive enquiries have been carried out since the incident, including reviewing CCTV, conducting specialist forensic work and speaking with witnesses. Officers have also been working alongside Sussex Police as part of the investigation.

BTP Detective Constable Billy Burstow said:

"I firstly want to acknowledge the level of concern this shocking incident has caused in the local community. We have been conducting extensive enquiries – including speaking to witnesses, specialist forensic work and CCTV examination – and have been working closely with our colleagues at Sussex Police to identify those responsible. I want to reassure residents that we don't believe there to be any wider risk to the community, and that this is being treated as an isolated incident involving two parties who were not previously known to each other. One man has been arrested in connection to the incident, and we are now releasing images of two men who may be able to assist our enquiries. We ask anyone who recognises them to text us on 61016 immediately, using the reference 851 of 7 March. You can also call us on 0800 40 50 40."

Anyone with information that could assist the investigation is urged to come forward. Details can also be shared anonymously through Crimestoppers by calling 0800 555 111.

Image: British Transport Police