A WOMAN was left with a chemical burn on her face after having a corrosive substance thrown at her by a group of youths.
The 21-year-old victim described the substance as being white and foam-like, and smelling of bleach.
It happened at about 8.20pm on Monday, July 31st, as the victim was walking from Stephenson Way towards Wright Close in Newton Aycliffe.
There were thought to be around seven or eight youths in the group. After the attack they ran off towards the town centre.
One of the girls in the group was wearing a black puffer jacket and blue jeans.
Inspector Sarah Honeyman, from Newton Aycliffe Neighbourhood Police Team, said: “This was obviously a very concerning incident for the victim, which left her needing hospital treatment.
“At this moment in time we don’t know what the substance was, but officers are working to determine what it was that was thrown.
“We’d like to reassure people that we believe this to be an isolated incident and would appeal for anyone who has any information to come forward.
“These youths may well be talking about the incident, so we would also like to appeal to anyone who may have overheard them talking about it to get in touch.”
Call Durham Police on 101, quoting incident number 508 of July 31.
UPDATE:
DURHAM Constabulary now believe that a reported chemical attack in Newton Aycliffe did not take place.
It was reported that on Monday, July 31 a woman suffered burns on her face after a corrosive substance was thrown at her by a gang of youths.
However, following a full investigation it now appears that the incident did not take place and officers are no longer looking for anyone in connection with it.
The alleged victim is now receiving help from mental health experts.
