39-Year-Old Mother Assaulted on Canal Path by Man Who Followed and Attacked Her

Published on October 19, 2025 at 01:54 PM
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A MOTHER has been sexually assaulted in a horrifying daytime attack on a canal towpath.

The 39-year-old woman was seized and pushed towards some bushes by a man who issued a sexual demand and followed her on Sunday, October 5.

A canal and footpath seen through a stone archway, surrounded by green trees.The mother has shared her distressing experienceCredit: Iacuzio, Luisa

The woman was walking along the Grand Union Canal towpath when she was assaulted.

She fought back against her vile attacker before fleeing the scene in fear.

In an interview with Birmingham Live , the mother expressed, “I have never felt that way by the canals before.”

“Since the incident, the only walk I have taken is to the local shop and back, which is very unlike me. It has really affected me.”

The frightened mother recounted that the traumatic event occurred while she was on one of her usual routes.

She noticed the man, who appeared “strange,” as she passed by him.

Upon her return along the path, she encountered the same man, who began to follow her.

In an attempt to evade him, she pretended to tie her shoelace, kneeling down in hopes he would walk past her.

Unfortunately, he initiated a terrifying assault, seizing her as she stood up.

The attacker gripped her arms, and despite her cries of “no,” he continued his assault, attempting to push her backward into the bushes.

The woman screamed and fought back, which prompted him to release her; this was when he made his demand.

She kept screaming and crying, causing the assailant to walk away, allowing the terrified mother to escape.

She managed to capture some video footage of the fleeing attacker, which was vital in identifying him.

The mother left the scene shortly after recording the image of her assailant's face.

Her quick thinking resulted in the arrest of Matthew Buffong, 43, of Leybourne Grove, Yardley.

He pleaded guilty to sexual assault on a female at Birmingham Magistrates’ Court on Thursday.

He was granted conditional bail and is scheduled to be sentenced in January.

The mother is receiving support in the aftermath of the traumatic attack.

She expressed her concerns that the despicable Matthew is free to walk the streets while on bail.

Frequently Asked Questions

What happened to the mother on the canal towpath?

The mother was sexually assaulted by a man who followed her and attempted to push her into the bushes while making a sexual demand.

How did the victim respond during the attack?

The victim fought back, screamed, and managed to escape after capturing video footage of her attacker.

What actions were taken after the incident?

The attacker, Matthew Buffong, was arrested and pleaded guilty to sexual assault. He is awaiting sentencing in January.

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