Woman Escapes Attempted Kidnapping in Wigan

A woman escaped an attempted kidnapping in Wigan early Friday morning after being grabbed and threatened by an unidentified man as she walked along Central Park Way. The incident occurred between 6:05 a.m. and 6:20 a.m. on January 9, 2026, when the suspect approached the victim, seized her, and tried to force her to accompany him, according to Greater Manchester Police.

The woman fought back, breaking free from the man's grip and fleeing to safety while the suspect ran from the scene. No injuries were reported, but the event has heightened concerns in the local community about personal safety during early morning hours. Police described the encounter as a frightening ordeal, with the victim now receiving support from specialist officers.

Authorities have launched a full investigation through the Criminal Investigation Department at Greater Manchester Police's Wigan division. The suspect is a white male, approximately 6 feet 1 inch tall, last seen wearing grey jogging bottoms, black trainers, a yellow high-visibility vest, and a black beanie hat. Detectives are pursuing multiple lines of inquiry to identify and apprehend him.

Detective Sergeant Andrew Partington, of GMP's Wigan...