Bury St Edmunds hammer assault: Police issue witness appeal

Police are appealing for witnesses following a serious assault in Bury St Edmunds.

Officers were called shortly before 4pm on October 16, following reports that a male had assaulted another man with a hammer in Cornhill, Bury St Edmunds.

The victim – a man in his 20s – was taken to West Suffolk Hospital after sustaining injuries that were not deemed to be life-threatening or life-changing.

Following initial police inquiries, officers are keen to speak to any further witnesses who may have knowledge of the incident or who may have captured footage on a mobile phone.

Samuel Ryder, of Firtree Close, Bury St Edmunds, was charged with malicious wounding with intent to cause grievous bodily harm (GBH) and for possession of an offensive weapon in a public place in connection with the incident.

He appeared before Ipswich Magistrates’ Court on Friday and is next due to appear at Ipswich Crown Court on November 15.

Any witnesses should contact Suffolk police, quoting reference 37/62949/19, go to http://www.suffolk.police.uk/contact-us/existing-report-update or call Crimestoppers on 0800 555111