Teen girl raped while on early morning stroll through park as man, 27, arrested
A MAN has been arrested and questioned after a teenage girl was raped in a city centre park.
The victim was attacked shortly before 7am this morning while walking through Palmerston Park in Southampton, Hampshire.
Cops confirmed that they had arrested a 27-year-old man on suspicion of rape and remains in custody.
The attack was reported immediately and police rushed to the park, where it is believed the man was arrested.
A spokesperson for Hampshire Constabulary said: “We were called at 7.07am today (Sun) to Palmerston Park in Southampton to a report that a woman in her late teens had been raped.
“A 27-year-old man has been arrested on suspicion of rape and remains in police custody at this time.
“Scenes of crime remain at the park carrying out forensic searches for clues while we gather evidence and conduct inquiries as part of our investigation.”
Detective Chief Inspecter Andrea Douglas added: “We are not looking for anyone else in connection with this incident, but we still want to hear from anyone who may have seen what happened.
“If you were in the vicinity of Palmerston Park between 6.30am and 7.30am and saw anything which could aid our investigation, please get in touch.
“We appreciate this is a worrying incident and there will be extra patrols in the area as a result. If you see an officer and have any concerns please speak to them.”
Anyone with information is encouraged to contact the force on 101.
Those who wish to report information anonymously can contact independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.