By Rory Reynolds
POLICE are hunting for a vicious thug who left a teenager unable to speak or walk after a savage metal pole attack.
The 17-year-old was out with friends when he was punched and head-butted in the face in what they called an unprovoked attack, before being left lying at Carrick Knowe Hill in Edinburgh.
However, his attacker returned with a metal pole and savagely beat him, breaking his leg.
The teen was rushed to the Edinburgh Royal Infirmary with his broken leg and a fractured cheekbone, along with other facial injuries.
Police say the attacker was seen “walking” off and went into a nearby residence.
The suspect is described as being in his late teens or early 20s, 5ft 5ins to 5ft 9ins tall, of slim build, with short dark hair, and speaking with an Edinburgh accent.
Vicious
Police are appealing for anyone who witnessed the attack, which occurred at 00.45am early on Sunday morning, to come forward.
They are attempting to trace the drivers or passengers of two taxis who dropped off people in the area before the attack happened.
A spokesman for Lothian and Borders Police said that the teen had been left “literally” unable to speak after the attack.
He added: “This was a vicious assault that has left the victim with serious injuries, and we are appealing for anyone who witnessed the assault to get in touch.
“There are reports of a people-carrier style private hire vehicle and a black taxi dropping off passengers in the area prior to the attack, and we would be keen to trace the drivers and passengers, who may have information that can assist our inquiries.
“Anyone who recognises the description to the suspect, or who has any other information that can help our inquiries, should also get in touch.”
