thisishampshire.net | Your portal to Hampshire

TEENAGER FIGHTS FOR LIFE AFTER ATTACK

From the archive, first published Wednesday 8th Oct 2003.

A TEENAGER is fighting for his life in hospital today after being beaten up by four youths in Southampton last night.

The 17-year-old, who has not yet been named, was set upon by the gang in a quiet footpath in Thornhill at about 10pm.

Police say the boy received a "vicious and sustained beating" which left him with serious head injuries.

He was rushed to Southampton General Hospital, where he is being treated in intensive care. His condition is described as serious but stable.

Two men aged 18 and 19, both from Thornhill, have been arrested but police are desperately searching for the other two suspects.

Officers arrived at the scene last night after being alerted by paramedics and arrested the two teenagers at Southampton addresses a short time afterwards.

Today, forensic experts are combing the site, which has been sealed off, for clues to help them identify the other suspects.

Detectives leading the hunt now want to hear from anyone who witnessed the incident, which occurred on a path between houses on Masefield Green, commonly known as the Rec.

Detective Inspector Nigel Oliver, leading the inquiry, said: "This appears to have been a vicious and sustained beating which left a teenage lad in a critical condition."

Call Bitterne CID on 0845 045 4545 or phone the free, anonymous Crimestoppers line on 0800 555 111.