A man has been arrested following a reported rape in Heaton Mersey Park, Stockport. The incident occurred around 9:30pm on Tuesday, September 9. According to Greater Manchester Police, officers responded promptly after receiving reports of the attack.

The victim described a harrowing encounter where a man approached her and allegedly forced her to accompany him, brandishing what she believed to be a firearm. Once in the park, the man is accused of raping her. Fortunately, the victim managed to escape shortly after the assault. The suspect fled the scene but was apprehended by police within an hour of the incident being reported.

The arrested individual, aged 28, remains in custody as investigations continue. Police have taken the firearm for examination to determine its viability. Superintendent Dave Henthorne addressed the community, stating, "Fortunately in Greater Manchester, stranger rape is extremely uncommon, but when instances do occur, it’s right that we work quickly and robustly to mitigate any further harm. What this victim has been through is nothing short of terrifying, and we have specialist officers in place to support her, which is our focus. She has been incredibly brave in coming forward."

Henthorne reassured the public, emphasising that there is no wider risk to the community at this time. He encouraged anyone with information or who may have witnessed the incident to contact the police immediately, quoting log 3668 of 9 September 2025. Officers are actively conducting enquiries in the area to provide reassurance to local residents.