Manhunt launched after grieving woman raped in graveyard by hooded man
An urgent manhunt has been launched after a grieving woman was raped in a graveyard by a hooded man.
Kent Police are looking for the perpetrator after a woman was raped and physically assaulted whilst visiting a cemetery in Edenbridge.
The attack occurred between 9pm and 9:30pm on November 9, at a cemetery on Church Street.
A Kent Police spokesman said: “It is reported a woman visiting a cemetery next to Church Street was physically and sexually assaulted by an unknown man.”
The incident, which took place whilst the victim was visiting a grave, was not immediately reported to authorities and was disclosed to police on November 12.The suspect has been described as quite tall with a slim build.
He was wearing a distinctive coat at the time of the attack, which investigators believe may have had a fur hood.
Kent Police are treating the incident as a serious sexual assault and are working to identify the unknown male perpetrator.
The attack occurred in darkness during the evening hours and authorities are particularly keen to speak with anyone who may have noticed someone matching the suspect’s description in the Church Street area that night.
Officers are pursuing multiple lines of inquiry to establish the full circumstances of the attack.
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A Kent Police statement confirmed that forensic analysis is being conducted at the scene.
Investigators are carrying out extensive house-to-house inquiries in the Church Street area.
The police are also checking for CCTV opportunities in the vicinity of the cemetery.
Local residents may notice an increased police presence in the area as officers continue their inquiries.
Investigators are particularly keen to review any relevant footage from the area.
“Motorists with dash-cam who may have been near the area, as well as businesses and residents with doorbell cameras or CCTV, are also asked to check for any important footage,” the police statement said.
Police are urging anyone with information about the incident to come forward.
Members of the public can contact Kent Police directly on 01622 652006, quoting reference 46/192603/24.
Alternatively, information can be provided anonymously via Crimestoppers on 0800 555111 or through their online form.