Gang attack man and try to snatch his dog in York

A three-strong gang attacked a man and tried to snatch his dog in York.

The incident occurred between 11.30pm on Saturday, November 21 and 12.30am on Sunday, November 22.

The victim, a man in his fifties, was walking his white and brown springer spaniel.

When he arrived at Stockton Lane, about 50 to 100 yards from the roundabout with the A1036, a white Transit-style van pulled up.

Three men jumped out and attacked him, and tried to steal his dog.

The victim was left with scratches and swelling to his head and face, but the dog was not taken.

Have you seen them?

Police have issued these descriptions of the attackers.

Male one

White, late 20s, of stocky build, approx. 5ft 8ins in height, short cropped dark hair.

He was wearing a dark jacket with a small logo on the left chest area.

The other two suspects referred to him as ‘Johnny’ or ‘Joanie’.

This man may also have a head injury which was sustained during the incident.

Male two

White, late 20s, of stocky build, approx. 6ft tall, short cropped dark hair. He was wearing a black denim jacket with a light coloured top underneath.

Male three

White, late 20s, quite stocky, approx. 6ft tall, short cropped dark hair. He was wearing a dark puffer jacket.

All the suspects are described as having strong Irish accents.

The van

The van is described as having a significant scratch to the metalwork down the passenger side, extending from the side sliding door to the rear tail lights.

It had blacked-out windows on the back door, which was a hatchback-style lifting upwards rather than sideways.

Anyone who recognises the descriptions or the suspect in the e-fit, or has any information that could assist the investigation, is asked to contact the police.