Police hunt ‘vicious’ gay basher

Police are calling on the public to help find a man alleged to be involved in a “vicious” homophobic assault along with three others in Collingwood in October.

Two men, aged 21 and 23, were punched, kicked and had their teeth knocked out in the brutal attack by a gang of four men. One of the victims was also knocked unconscious.

The two were allegedly set upon while walking along Gipps St, near Rupert St, by the four attackers around 2.15am on Sunday, October 10.

The pair were asked for directions before the attacked started.

One of the victims had his wallet and mobile phone stolen during the incident and the attackers were last seen fleeing down Rupert St.

A stolen credit card was used later for a taxi fare to Edward St, Reservoir, however when it was discovered the card was cancelled, three passengers fled the vehicle.

Yesterday Detective Senior Constable Matt Archer said police had spoken to three men in connection with the attack. It is alleged one of the three told police the group had set out to deliberately assault a gay person.

No charges have yet been laid. Two suspects are in custody on an unrelated matter.

Detective Senior Constable Archer described the incident as a “vicious, callous attack” and said police want to speak to the fourth person involved in the assault.

“I do hold concerns this person may re-offend,” he said.

Police are looking for a man in his early 20s, caucasian or Mediterranean, of heavy build. He was  wearing dark blue jeans and a (predominately) black Ed Hardy-style jacket at the time of the attack.

Police are calling for any witnesses to come forward, including the occupants of a luxury black sedan seen in the area at the time.

Victoria Police Gay and Lesbian Liaison Officer, Sgt Gabrielle Tyacke told the Star Observer it was important anyone with any information contact police and urged people to be aware of their safety when heading out at night.

“If you’re out at night and you’ve had a few drinks, you should always be aware of your surroundings and, like we always suggest, make sure you’re in well lit areas and try to be where other people are around,” she said.
“Know your surroundings and know you escape route.”

info: Anyone with information regarding the incident is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or visit www.crimestoppers.com.au