A festival-goer who has been fighting for life all week following a brutal attack at Parklife has died.
Robert Hart, 26, from Macclesfield, was punched while dancing with his girlfriend in front of the main stage, moments before headliner Snoop Dogg was due to perform on Saturday night.
Police believe the assault occurred after the offender hit Hart’s girlfriend with an inflatable doll.
The victim was given CPR at the scene by two people believed to be off-duty medical personnel after being knocked unconscious.
PARKLIFE: Robert visited the popular festival last summer
He was taken to North Manchester General Hospital then transferred to Hope Hospital after his condition deteriorated. Police have now confirmed that Hart has now passed away in hospital.
Detective Inspector Richard Eales: “Our immediate thoughts go out to Robert’s family and loved ones. We currently have specially trained officers with them to help through this terrible time.
“We are still in the early stages of this investigation, however several witnesses have assisted us with vital information concerning the description of the offender. We believe a confrontation took place following an inflatable doll hitting Robert’s girlfriend.
CHAMPION: Robert was an avid Manchester City fan
“We are aware other assaults took place in the park that evening, but I am specifically appealing for witnesses who recall seeing the inflatable doll and the attack on Robert immediately thereafter.”
The offender is described as a mixed race male, aged in his late 20’s and around 6ft 1 tall. A police e-fit is shown in the main image above on the right hand side.
He has a muscular build and short, dark hair which was shaved at the sides. He was also wearing shorts and a blue, bomber-style jacket with the letter ‘A’ in white on the front.
HEARTBREAKING: Robert will be forever missed
Det Insp Eales added: “I am keen for those witnesses to come forward and other persons nearby who may have mobile phone footage of the attack or captured an image of the person responsible.
HAPPIER TIMES: Robert on holiday earlier this year
“Finally, if you are the man responsible or were with him that evening, please come forward.”
Parklife’s organisers have also released the following statement: “Everyone involved in Parklife is devastated by today’s deeply sad announcement.
“Our sincerest and heartfelt condolences go out to Robert’s family and friends at this difficult time.
“We will continue to assist Greater Manchester Police with its investigation and urge anyone that may have witnessed the incident to contact the Police through any official channel available to them.”
Anyone with information can contact the incident room direct on 0161 85 69283 or email the incident room on [email protected] with any relevant footage.
Alternatively you can call police on 101 or independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
Images courtesy of Facebook, with thanks.
