Police incident forces closure of area around Oakley Wood crematorium, Wellesbourne
23 June 2012 12:06
Police incident forces closure of area around Oakley Wood crematorium, Wellesbourne
Incident 61, June 23
Police are investigating an incident which is believed to have taken place near to Oakley Wood crematorium, Wellesbourne, and have had to seal an area off for forensic examination.
They are, therefore, advising all members of the public who wish to visit the crematorium to pay respects to loved ones or to walk their dogs in the woods to avoid the area until further notice.
Officers are investigating an allegation of a sexual assault which is believed to have taken place in the early hours of this morning, Saturday June 23.
A female, who is in her 20s and from the Northampton area, got into what she believed to be a taxi from outside Argos in Leamington Spa between 12 midnight and 1am, and asked the driver to take her to Wellesbourne.
There were already three males in the vehicle and it is alleged that when the car stopped near to the crematorium they sexually assaulted the female and drove off.
Inspector Steve Beard said: "In order to fully investigate the incident it has been necessary to seal off an area around the crematorium and unfortunately turn away anyone who wants to visit.
"This may cause distress for anyone wishing to visit to lay flowers and pay respects to their loved ones, and I am sincerely sorry for this. I do hope that members of the public will understand the need for us to gather forensic evidence and investigate the incident fully.
"We will re-open the scene as soon as professionally possible."
Officers investigating the allegation of sexual assault would like to hear from anyone who saw any suspicious activity near to Argos between 12 midnight and 1am, particularly a lone female getting into a dark car which contained three Asian males.
Anyone with relevant information is asked to contact Warwickshire Police on 01926 415000.
Note to editors: Information about the closure of the crematorium will be updated when available. There will be no further information about the sexual assault until Monday June 25.
Anne Tugwell