A man remains in a critical condition after what police are treating as a suspected homophobic hate crime in Bristol city centre.

The victim, who is in his thirties, was discovered unconscious in St Nicholas Street during the early hours of Wednesday 24 April. Avon and Somerset Police confirmed he had sustained serious injuries to his face. He was rushed to hospital, where his condition has since worsened, though it is now described as critical but stable.

Second Victim Also Injured

A second man was also hurt during the same incident, but his injuries are understood to be minor. Police believe the attack involved three or four individuals, who are thought to have initially fled the scene on foot before later entering a vehicle.

The assault took place at approximately 3:15am BST. Officers are now appealing for witnesses, particularly anyone who was in the vicinity at the time, to come forward with information that could assist the investigation.

One suspect is believed to have been wearing a blue jacket at the time of the attack, while two others were reportedly dressed mainly in black or grey clothing.

Homophobic Motivation Being Investigated

According to a police spokesperson, details provided by the second victim have led officers to explore whether the assault was motivated by homophobia.

Neighbourhood Chief Inspector Keith Smith confirmed that police have already contacted local LGBTQ+ leaders and representatives from Stand Against Racism & Inequality (Sari) to inform them of the incident.

"Our priority is to identify those responsible as quickly as possible," he said. "At this stage, there is no evidence to suggest there is any wider threat to the public."