Detectives are intensifying their efforts as they investigate an attempted murder that unfolded in Johnstone. The incident occurred at approximately 12:20 BST on Wednesday, September 13th, 2023, and left a male youth seriously injured after an altercation escalated into violence.
The victim, a 16-year-old male, was waiting at a bus stop across from Thorn Court in Johnstone when he was approached by two male individuals. The encounter quickly escalated into an altercation, during which the youth was subjected to a brutal assault that included a stabbing.
Following the attack, the two male assailants fled the scene by running through Thorn Court. Law enforcement authorities are actively treating this incident as an attempted murder and have launched a thorough investigation.
The first attacker is described as a slim individual in his mid to late teens, with short brown hair. He was reportedly wearing a dark-coloured track suit with the hood up or a baseball cap.
The second attacker is also characterised as slim and in his mid to late teens, sporting a light-coloured top and carrying a bag around his chest.
Immediate emergency services response took place, and the 16-year-old victim was transported to a hospital. Medical staff have reported his condition as stable, but the severity of the assault underscores the gravity of the situation.
An 18-year-old man was taken into custody last night in connection with the incident. However, he has since been released pending further investigation.
In their pursuit of justice, officers are diligently collecting relevant CCTV footage from the surrounding area, hoping to uncover any additional information that may aid their ongoing inquiries.
Detective Inspector Nicky Beattie appealed to the public for assistance, stating, “At this stage, the motive is unknown for this attack, and a 16-year-old has been seriously injured. I am appealing to any members of the public who were in and around the area yesterday at the time of the incident to get in touch with us with any information, no matter how small. If you have any recording equipment, such as doorbell or dash cams, please check the footage, as you could have images that would assist our ongoing enquiries.”
To provide reassurance to residents, officers remain present in the area and are available for any concerns or information. Members of the public with relevant information regarding this incident are urged to contact Police Scotland via 101, quoting incident number 1542 of September 13, 2023. Alternatively, individuals can choose to provide information anonymously by calling Crimestoppers at 0800 555 111.
