A MISSILE was fired from a catapult at a woman out jogging through Harpenden last week.

The young woman is thought to have been hit by a kind of fishing pellet launched from a white Peugeot 106 as it drove past her under the bridge along Hollybush Lane at around 8.20pm Monday.

There are thought to have been two men travelling in the car at the time of the alleged assault, for which police are now appealing for witnesses and information.

PC Justin Sheppard, investigating from the Safer Neighbourhood Team, said: “These kinds of offences are very rare in Harpenden and the victim was shaken up, although only had minor injuries. I am appealing for anyone who saw anything, has any information or can help identify those responsible to come forward.”

An 18 year-old man from Harpenden has been arrested on suspicion of assault and has been police bailed until mid-August.

Anyone with any information on this crime should ring PC Sheppard via the non-emergency number 0845 33 00 222 or, alternatively, call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111.