Police are hunting a six foot tall ‘athletic’ man carrying a shoulder bag following a pepper spray attack at a Pizza Hut restaurant.
Around 20 people were affected by the incident at the chain on Fountain Street, in Manchester city centre, just before 8pm on Friday night.
Officers investigating the incident have established that a man entered the restaurant a short time before dispersing the “incapacitant spray”.
Diners and staff had to be checked over by paramedics and though nobody required hospital treatment, police say some people were “distressed”.
Greater Manchester Police say the offender is described as being black, between the ages of 25 and 35, 6ft tall and of an athletic build.
At the time of the incident, he was wearing a light coloured hoodie with a zip, grey trousers and white trainers.
He was also carrying a dark-coloured shoulder bag.
Anyone with information about the incident is urged to contact police.
A GMP spokesperson said: “At around 7.55pm on Friday 7 January 2020, officers were called to Pizza Hut on Fountain Street near Piccadilly Gardens.
“Emergency services attended and enquiries have established that a man entered a short time before dispersing the spray.
“20 customers and staff were assessed by paramedics at the scene. None required hospital treatment but some were distressed.
“The offender is described as being black, between the ages of 25 and 35, 6ft tall and of an athletic build. At the time of the incident, he was wearing a light coloured hoodie with a zip, grey trousers and white trainers. He was also carrying a dark-coloured shoulder bag.
“An investigation is underway.”
Anyone with information should contact police on 0161 856 4166 quoting 2749 07/02/20.
Alternatively, contact the independent charity Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111.
