Full Breakdown
Catapult Attack on Elderly Man in Cranbrook, Kent
6/23/2026, 1:12:44 AM
Catapult Attack on Elderly Man in Cranbrook, Kent
On 16 June 2024 at about 18:30 BST, Kent Police responded to Waterloo Road in the market town of Cranbrook after reports that five youths fired catapults at a man in his 70s. The victim was injured and taken to hospital. Police said the suspects were aged 16-18 and fled toward The Hill, locally called The Crane.
Location and Setting
Waterloo Road is a residential street in Cranbrook, a town in Kent. The incident occurred near The Hill area, a local landmark also known as The Crane. The attack took place in the early evening, a time when the street typically sees pedestrian activity.
Involved Parties
The primary parties are the victim, an unnamed man in his 70s; the alleged perpetrators, five youths aged between 16 and 18; and Kent Police, the law-enforcement agency leading the investigation.
Chronology of Events
Police received the emergency call at 18:30 BST on 16 June, located the injured man at the scene, and subsequently issued a public appeal for witnesses and CCTV footage.
Incident Data
Five youths, aged 16-18, fired catapults on Waterloo Road. The attack occurred around 6.30 pm (18:30 BST). The victim, a man in his 70s, required hospital treatment. Suspects fled toward The Hill (The Crane).
Police Appeal for Information
Kent Police confirmed the incident and asked anyone who saw the attack or has CCTV to contact the force at 01622 604100, quoting reference 46/96574/26. Anonymous tips can be sent to Crimestoppers (0800 555111 or online).
Victim Interaction with Officers
The injured man spoke with officers at the scene before being taken to hospital; police later re-interviewed him after his admission.
Direct Statements from Kent Police
- “A man in his 70s was taken to hospital with injuries after catapults were fired towards him, police have said.” — Kent Police
- “Kent Police said it was called to a report of five young people firing catapults on Waterloo Road, in Cranbrook, at about 18:30 BST on 16 June.” — Kent Police
- “The suspects, believed to be aged between 16 and 18, made off towards The Hill area, also known locally as The Crane.” — Kent Police
- “Anyone with information, who may have witnessed the incident, or has CCTV in the area, is urged to contact police.” — Kent Police
- “People can also contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111 or online at crimestoppers-uk.org.” — Kent Police
Implications for Community Safety
Police emphasize that the attack underscores concerns about youth-driven violence in public spaces, prompting a community-wide call for vigilance and cooperation to prevent similar incidents.
Consistency of Sources
Both BBC News and Kent Online present identical accounts of the time, location, suspect ages and victim’s age; no contradictions are evident.
Ongoing Investigation
Police are reviewing CCTV, following up on tips, and maintaining an active investigation.
