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Northfleet mum terrified after mystery men smash her home's windows and door twice in one day

05:00, 21 March 2023

updated: 12:14, 21 March 2023

A mum has spoken of her "terror" after the home she shares with her children was targeted by mystery attackers twice within 24 hours.

Police and forensic officers were called to Springhead Road, Northfleet, just after midnight on Thursday following reports a house was seriously damaged. March 16

On the same day, at around 11.45pm, it's alleged two male suspects pulled up in a black car and launched items at the home, smashing the windows in the process.

The front door was also smashed off its hinges.

Mum-of-four Anna Marie Snell was inside at the time with her four children and grandchild.

She told KentOnline "At first I thought there had been a car crash outside the bang was that loud.

"But when I came down I saw glass everywhere, with the windows smashed and the door kicked through.

Anna Marie Snell had her front door smashed off its hinges in Springhead Road, Northfleet. Picture: Anna Marie Salt
Anna Marie Snell had her front door smashed off its hinges in Springhead Road, Northfleet. Picture: Anna Marie Salt
Two male suspects in a black car are thought to have caused the damage and left Anna Marie's family petrified. Picture: Anna Marie Snell
Two male suspects in a black car are thought to have caused the damage and left Anna Marie's family petrified. Picture: Anna Marie Snell

"It was terrifying, I was so shocked. I didn't know what to say or do other than call the police.

"It did scare me and my children and I feel very vulnerable in my own home and scared to go out and let my children out.

"The night after the two incidents a car similar to my own was damaged, which I believe was intended to be my car.

"I'm living a real life nightmare. My children are scared in their own home and have all been so emotional and on edge since.

"I don't know why this is happening or who would do anything like this."

Following the first incident, officers attended to ensure the property was secure, obtain photographs, and carry out CCTV and doorbell camera enquiries in the area.

Anna Marie Snell, from Springhead Road, Northfleet, has been left in fear at her own home after a number of attacks. Picture: Anna Marie Snell
Anna Marie Snell, from Springhead Road, Northfleet, has been left in fear at her own home after a number of attacks. Picture: Anna Marie Snell
Anna Marie's family home was targeted twice in one day. Picture: Anna Marie Snell
Anna Marie's family home was targeted twice in one day. Picture: Anna Marie Snell

And just before midnight following the second attack, police called round again to take an account, obtain forensic samples, and safeguard the victim.

Inquiries into both incidents are ongoing.

Anna Marie, 39, says she felt let down by police and Gravesham council after she asked for some safeguarding following the first incident and to be accommodated elsewhere.

She claims she was told as it was a "one off" incident at the time there wasn't anything either could do.

Instead she stayed at a friend's home for the night but returned home before the second attack.

Superintendent Nick Sparkes said: "Safeguarding victims is a priority for the force. Our officers remain vigilant, and we have increased patrols in the area to deter the offenders or others from committing similar offences.

The Nortfhleet family had to board up their windows and have installed a new alarm system. Picture: Anna Marie Snell
The Nortfhleet family had to board up their windows and have installed a new alarm system. Picture: Anna Marie Snell

"We will remain in regular contact with the victim throughout the investigations and pursue any suspects to bring them to justice.

"To assist with enquiries, we urge residents with CCTV or doorbell camera footage and drivers with dashcam footage, who were in the area at the time of the incidents to come forward."

Anyone with information should contact Kent Police on 01474 366149, quoting crime reference number 46/48273/23.

You can also contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111 or by using the online form on their website.

Gravesham council has been approached for comment.

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