Find local news in Kent

Home   Canterbury   News   Article

Canterbury Christ Church University student found unconscious in stranger's garden after random attack

12:33, 01 May 2019

updated: 15:50, 01 May 2019

A student left unconscious after a random attack was rushed to hospital with a fractured jaw and cracked teeth after being found in a stranger's garden.

Jonathan Wigmore, 21, fell victim to the unprovoked assault near Craddock Road, Canterbury, on Monday evening at around 6pm.

The sports psychology student had been out for celebratory drinks after handing his dissertation in that morning, when he felt a blow to the side of his head as he walked back alone to a friend's house.

The attack has left Jonathan unable to open his mouth or chew properly (9472652)
The attack has left Jonathan unable to open his mouth or chew properly (9472652)

He lost consciousness and was found passed out in a garden by the property's residents, who called 999.

"As I was walking I just felt a punch in the side of my head and from that point on it's pretty blank," Mr Wigmore, who is in his final year at Canterbury Christ Church University, said.

"I remember waking up in the hospital after being taken in an ambulance and was told I had a fractured and displaced jaw as well as three cracked teeth, which I will need some pretty severe dentist work to fix.

Jonathan had handed his dissertation in just hours before the attack (9472655)
Jonathan had handed his dissertation in just hours before the attack (9472655)

"Unfortunately I didn't see anyone's face or understand if there was any particular reason for the attack.

"I'm told that I must have attempted to flee as I vaulted a fence and lost consciousness in someone's garden before they found me and called an ambulance."

Mr Wigmore, who is now unable to fully open his mouth or chew, says he does not know the identity of those who raised the alarm, but he would like to hear from them to express his thanks.

"I would like to find out and thank them," he continued.

The attack took place near Craddock Road, Canterbury (9472801)
The attack took place near Craddock Road, Canterbury (9472801)

The ordeal has left Mr Wigmore facing costly dental bills and the possibility of surgery if his injuries do not heal.

A fundraising appeal has been set up to help cover his medical costs.

A police spokesman confirmed officers were alerted to the incident yesterday and are now investigating.

Anyone with information is asked to call police on 01843 222289 or alternatively Crimestoppers on 0800 55511.

Read more: All the latest news from Canterbury

This site uses cookies. By continuing to browse the site you are agreeing to our use of cookies - Learn More