A second man has been arrested in connection with a serious assault that occurred in Cardiff’s Bute Park.
A 54-year-old man remains in a life-threatening condition at the University Hospital of Wales following the alleged assault which occurred near Sophia Gardens entrance to Bute Park at around 1am on Tuesday, July 20.
As a result of the attack and an alleged sexual assault in the same location the week before, Cardiff Council have taken the decision to close the park at night times.
Officers arrested a 25-year-old man on suspicion of attempted murder earlier this week in connection with the July 20 incident. He remains in police custody.
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On Saturday, police said a 36-year-old man was arrested on suspicion of attempted murder, rape and robbery, on Friday (July 24) in connection with the same incident.
A woman who was also arrested in connection with the incident has been released with no further action.
Detective Chief Inspector Mark O’Shea, who is leading the investigation, said: “This was a sustained, violent attack which has left a man seriously ill in hospital, and which has understandably caused concern particularly in the local community.
“A Major Incident Room continues to run at Cardiff Central Police Station, and we are extremely grateful to everyone who has come forward to help with the investigation to date.
“We continue to have a dedicated team working on this investigation and we will pursue every line of enquiry to ensure everyone involved is brought to justice. The family of the Victim are being supported by specially trained Family Liaison Officers.
“In addition, we have increased patrols in the area and are continuing to work with partner agencies to ensure those living, working and visiting the city centre can do so safely.
“We continue to appeal to anyone with information, or anyone who may have been a victim of crime at the location, to come forward. I can assure them that they will be treated sensitively.”
Police teams were seen searching the River Taff in the days following the incident.
Police teams searching the River Taff near Bute Park following a serious assault
(Image: WalesOnline reporter)
The alleged incident, which happened around 1.10am on Tuesday, saw a large part of the park cordoned off, with entrances from Castle Street and Sophia Gardens both closed.
It was the second time in less than a week that part of the park was closed off, with a 19-year-old man appearing in court accused of rape following an incident near the Castle Street entrance on July 15.
Officers continue to appeal for information in relation to the incident and ask anyone with dash-cam or mobile footage which may assist the investigation to use their dedicated portal, linked here.
People can also get in touch through social media, emailing [email protected], call 101 or go to this website here. Give reference number 2100254215.
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