Manhunt update after ‘serious assault’ in Oxford suburb

Following the incident in North Way, Barton on Monday, August 17, Thames Valley Police said it wanted the public’s help to locate Oxford local Arthur McDonagh.

The force warned the public not to approach the 33-year-old, but instead to call the police if they see him.

READ MORE: Probe launched as Oxford woman ‘assaulted’ in Vauxhall Astra car

On Tuesday, August 18, a spokesperson said: “Thames Valley Police is appealing for the public’s help to locate Arthur McDonagh, aged 33, from Oxford.

“He is wanted in connection with a serious assault that happened in North Way, Barton, yesterday (August 17).

A crashed truck in Oxford following the incident in Barton (Image: Alex Carter)

“Arthur is known to frequent the Garsington area.

“If you have any information about his whereabouts call 101 or make a report online, quoting reference 43260426989.

“If you see him, do not approach him, but instead call 999.”

Well over a week on, the police has revealed that Mr McDonagh remains at large.

The spokesperson said today (Saturday, August 29): “Arthur McDonagh remains outstanding; our enquiries are ongoing to locate him.”

During the incident emergency services were called to Barton Village Road at about 11.10am.

Arthur McDonagh, 33 (Image: TVP)

The force closed North Way to the junction with Edgecombe Road while officers carried out their enquiries.

A damaged white pickup truck was left in the middle of the street, surrounded by broken glass and with what appeared to be blood splattered on the rear right-hand side.

The white pickup truck could be seen behind the police cordon.

There were multiple reports of different weapons being used during the assault, but Thames Valley Police confirmed that they do not believe an axe, bat or machete were used in the attack.

But police declined to say what weapon they do believe was used in the assault.

Police in Barton. (Image: Alexandra Carter / Newsquest)

The force confirmed a man was taken to hospital for treatment, and that he was in a stable condition, and they thanked the local community for their support.

Following the incident, Mike Rowley, Labour councillor for Barton and Sandhills, said his thoughts were with the victim and praised local officers for their response.

READ MORE: Public told ‘DO NOT APPROACH’ amid Oxford attack manhunt

He said: “My thoughts are with the victim as the incident sounds horrible.

“I am in touch with the police, but I’m not expecting any updates yet as their priority is finding the offender and making sure there aren’t any further offences.”

Appeals for public help in finding individuals by the police can relate to suspects, witnesses or others who may have vital information in relation to the incident.

They do not mean the person is to blame nor do they imply guilt.