The 'Putney Pusher' case, which shocked Londoners six years ago, has taken a dramatic turn with the reported re-arrest of a millionaire banker. The arrest comes after police interviewed his former partner, suggesting new leads may have emerged to revive the investigation into the attempted assault on Putney Bridge in 2017.
On 5th May 2017, a 33-year-old woman had a miraculous escape from serious injury when she was pushed onto the road as a bus approached. The swift action of the driver, who swerved to avoid her, prevented a potentially catastrophic outcome. The perpetrator then ran across the bridge, returning about 15 minutes later and seemingly jogging past the scene.
The suspect, a 49-year-old man, had been arrested in June 2017 on suspicion of attempted grievous bodily harm. Although he was released under investigation at that time, police subsequently released him without charge in July 2017 due to insufficient evidence. The case garnered significant media attention and an £20,000 reward was offered by Transport for London for information leading to the identification and conviction of the perpetrator.
Metropolitan Police released CCTV footage of the incident, which showed the man pushing the woman before continuing his run. Fortunately, the victim sustained only minor injuries in the fall. The renewed focus on this case may be linked to new information that has come to light from the interview with the former partner.
This latest development rekindles public interest in a case that puzzled investigators and captured nationwide attention due to its audacious nature and the remarkable escape of the victim. Reports indicate the arrested individual is a senior figure in the finance sector, although the Metropolitan Police have not officially confirmed his identity.