Big Brother UK Star Beaten In Homophobic Attack As Bystanders Laughed, Took Selfies
Big Brother UK star Mark Byron, who appeared on last year's "Power Trip" season, says he was "disgusted" by the jovial reaction of passersby when he and a friend were violently beaten in a homophobic attack on Thursday.
Byron told the Liverpool Echo that he was leaving the Black Rabbit on Fleet Street when a man grabbed him by the arm and shouted homophobic slurs, then punched him to the ground.
Byron's friend Paul suffered more devastating injuries in the attack, including a broken shoulder and fractured skull, after he stepped in to defend his shaken friend.
Byron claims passersby were somewhat delighted to see the assault, as it apparently provided great selfie material for them. Though his group of friends begged Black Rabbit bouncers to help, they reportedly did nothing.
“It was disgusting. While we were waiting for an ambulance to arrive, drinkers were trying to take selfies with Paul who was covered in blood," said Byron. "Drinkers were standing by and laughing at the appalling scene before them."
Mark added that he feels guilty for what happened to his friend Paul and is disgusted by the reaction from bystanders in his hometown.
“How someone can be hurt by stepping in to protect me against a hate crime in 2015 is unbelievable," he said. “I am so proud of Liverpool and its acceptance of all cultures and way of life, this really has saddened me that people who may have had no legal responsibility to step in and help, but certainly a moral one, turned a blind eye and even laughed while such a disgusting and ferocious attack took place.”
City Centre Neighbourhood Inspector Steve Hardy said the police are now searching for the assailant, a white male wearing a blue t-shirt and blue shorts, who may have possibly fled the scene in a cab.
“We are aware that a number of taxis passed the vicinity of the assault and that one may have transported the offender from the scene," said Hardy. "I would urge all of them to contact us to help us with our enquiries. Information they may have, no matter how small, may help us bring those responsible to justice."
He added, “I’d also like to reassure people that incidents like this are rare and that neighbourhood officers will be increasing patrols in the area.”
Mark's friend Paul is reportedly hospitalized in stable condition.
