5 armed attackers sought after Corstorphine attempted murder

The 37-year-old victim managed to escape the gang, who pounced as he walked along Featherhall Avenue in Corstorphine on Thursday night.

Two of the attackers confronted their target before three others jumped out of a parked car and joined in the attack, which happened just 30 yards from the busy St John’s Road.

It’s understood the victim was deliberately targeted and that weapons, including knives, were used in the attack.

The man managed to run away, but was later taken to Edinburgh Royal Infirmary, where he was treated for his injuries.

Detectives investigating the attempted murder said they were keen to trace a vehicle, thought to be a silver BMW, used in the incident.

Detective Inspector John Kavanagh said: “This incident happened at a busy time of night and it’s very possible someone would’ve seen this attack.

“The vehicle that the men got out of may have been a silver BMW, but anyone who has further information is urged to contact us.”

All five suspects have been described as white men aged in their 20s, and police called on anyone who could help their investigation to come forward.

In a statement, Police Scotland said: “Police in Edinburgh are appealing for witnesses following an attempted murder in the Corstorphine area of the city.

“The incident happened around 8.30pm on Thursday, March 31 on Featherhall Avenue, around 30 yards down from the junction with St Johns Road.

“A 37-year-old man was walking along Featherhall Avenue when he became involved in an altercation with two men.

“Three other men got out of a parked car and got involved with the attack.

“The victim managed to run away and was taken to Edinburgh Royal Infirmary with a serious but non-life threatening injury.

“The suspects are described as five white males in their 20s.”

Ken Swinney, secretary of Corstorphine community council, said the news would come as a shock to local residents.

He said the street where the vicious attack happened was well-used by young families – with shops and nurseries close by.

He added: “I stay not far from Featherhall Avenue. It’s very unusual for that area. It’s quite a quiet street – but there’s plenty of people going about.

“There’s two children’s nurseries on that road.

“It’s not far from Tesco, and there’s a McDonald’s just around the corner. There’s always something going on.

“I haven’t heard anything, which is strange.”