A 13-year-old was left with a fractured cheekbone after being violently attacked by an older girl.
The incident happened in the Union Street area of Sunderland at around 8pm on Sunday, June 27.
It was reported that the victim had been attacked by an older girl outside the Greggs bakery, with the ferocity of the assault leaving the victim with serious facial injuries.
The girls are believed to be known to each other.
Read more: Terrifying head-cam footage exposed dangerous Sunderland driver's lie
Detectives have launched an investigation into the brutal attack.
They are now appealing for a Good Samaritan who helped the injured girl a short time after the attack to come forward.
The adult male helped the victim and walked her to the Wearmouth Bridge, waiting with her until a family friend came to collect her.
Detective Sergeant Sara Stobie, of Northumbria Police, said: “This was a nasty assault which left the victim with a fractured cheekbone. She was understandably distressed by what had happened.
“We are now committed to finding out the circumstances behind the attack and this male could be a key witness who we really want to contact us.
“He is not in any trouble at all, but we hope he has information that can assist our ongoing investigation so I am appealing for him to come forward and make himself known to police.”
The man, or anyone with information, is asked to contact police via the ‘Tell Us Something’ page of their website or by calling 101 quoting log 440 280621. Alternatively, you can email 8683@northumbria.pnn.police.uk directly if you can help.
To get breaking news sent straight to your phone, download our app here or sign up to our newsletter for the latest news straight to your inbox.
