Man Arrested in ‘Putney Pusher’ Case After Police Speak to Ex-Partner
London police arrested a man in connection with the 2015 incident where a woman was pushed in front of a bus on Putney Bridge, according to a statement from the Metropolitan Police. The arrest followed interactions with the suspect’s former partner, as reported by multiple outlets.
What Happened in the Putney Pusher Case?
The incident occurred on August 18, 2015, when a woman was allegedly pushed onto the path of a bus on Putney Bridge, resulting in serious injuries. The case, dubbed the “Putney Pusher” by media, remained unsolved for nearly a decade. A Metropolitan Police spokesperson confirmed the arrest of a 44-year-old man in 2024, citing “new evidence and witness cooperation.”
How Did the Arrest Come About?
Police stated the arrest followed “intensive investigations and discussions with the suspect’s ex-partner,” as reported by *The Sun*. The ex-partner provided information that led to the identification of the suspect, though details about the nature of their relationship or the evidence shared remain undisclosed. The Metropolitan Police did not confirm whether the ex-partner was a witness or an involved party.
What Is the Legal Status of the Suspect?
The man was detained on suspicion of assault and was later released on bail, according to *BBC News*. A court filing obtained by *Sky News* indicates the case is set for a preliminary hearing in December 2024. The prosecution has not yet outlined specific charges, but the alleged act of pushing the victim onto a bus could constitute attempted murder or grievous bodily harm under UK law.
Why Did the Case Take So Long to Resolve?
The delay in the investigation was attributed to “limited forensic evidence and a lack of public leads” in the immediate aftermath, according to *The Times*. A police report from 2016 noted that “no credible suspects were identified” at the time. Recent advances in digital evidence collection and renewed public appeals for information are believed to have prompted the reopening of the case.
What Are the Implications for the Victim?
The victim, whose identity has not been disclosed, was treated for severe injuries and later released from the hospital. A statement from her legal representative, obtained by *The New York Times*, expressed relief at the arrest but emphasized the “prolonged trauma” caused by the incident. The case has sparked renewed calls for safer pedestrian infrastructure on Putney Bridge, a busy thoroughfare in southwest London.
The Metropolitan Police did not respond to requests for further details by publication time. The case remains under active investigation, with authorities urging anyone with additional information to contact them directly.