An armed gang forced their way into Mark Cavendish’s home and violently attacked him. They also ransacked his home and robbed his property, including a watch valued at over €100,000 and which Cavendish and team mate Julian Alaphilippe have worn during races.
Cavendish’s wife and young children were also in the family home at the time. His wife, Peta, was threatened at knifepoint during the ordeal and the children witnessed the attack.
The targeted robbery took place at the family home in Essex just after 2am on November 27th and now the local police force is appealing for information. Local officers believe the four-man gang knew Cavendish was seriously injured, from a racing crash, and so decided to target him at that time.
“As I’m sure you will understand, this incident has left our family extremely distressed – not just myself and Peta but our children as well, who feared for their lives and are now struggling with the after-effects,” Cavendish said.
“No one should have to experience the sort of violence and threats made against us, let alone this happening in a family home – a place where everyone should feel safe.
“The items taken are simply material goods and our priority at the moment is to make sure we all recover from the incident as a family, and we know this is likely to take some time.”
A Louis Vuitton suitcase and two high-value watches were stolen, with Det Insp Tony Atkin, the senior investigating officer, pointing out the attack occurred at a time when Cavendish was recovering from the injuries he sustained in his crash at the Ghent Six Day.
“This was undoubtedly a targeted incident at the home of a celebrated British Olympian, who at the time was recovering from significant injuries resulting from a crash while competing, which was well publicised,” he said.
“Our investigation is moving along at pace and we are following a number of lines of inquiry as we seek to catch those responsible.”
