A 53-year-old man from Possilpark, Glasgow, has been left with severe injuries after a brutal assault stemming from a tragic case of mistaken identity.
Daniel Dolan was viciously attacked at Possilpark Station around 3:20 pm on Friday, February 21, 2025, after reportedly being mistaken for a local thief known as the “G22 Grinch,” who has been linked to a recent spate of break-ins in the area. The unprovoked assault left Dolan with fractured facial bones, a dislocated shoulder, and deep lacerations to his cheek and ear. He was knocked unconscious multiple times during the attack.
The incident has sparked outrage within the community and led to a desperate plea for justice from Dolan’s family. His niece, Sheryl, took to social media to voice her anger and disbelief, highlighting that there is no resemblance between her uncle and the actual suspect. “My uncle Daniel stays in the area where most of the break-ins have happened, and 99% of people who live there know him,” she wrote. “They see him daily either going to shops for himself or his elderly neighbors, doing people’s gardens, or out walking his dog. The ‘G22 Grinch’ and him look nothing alike!”
Daniel Dolan, a well-known and well-liked figure in Possilpark, has been left not only with physical scars but also deep emotional trauma. Sheryl revealed that her uncle, who already battles chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), is now terrified to leave his home alone or use public transport, fearing for his safety.
Police Scotland has launched an investigation into the assault and is urging anyone with information to come forward. “This was a vicious and unprovoked attack on an innocent man,” a police spokesperson said. “We are working diligently to identify and locate the individual responsible.”
Sheryl’s emotional social media post also included a direct appeal to the attacker: “You better hand yourself in because this isn’t going away, and you will be caught soon. Do the right thing.” She called on locals to assist with the investigation, adding, “Anyone who knows this person and what he’s done, please give us a name or call Police Scotland anonymously. Knowing and doing nothing is no better.”
The incident has raised concerns about vigilantism and the risks of mistaken identity in close-knit communities. Neighbors and friends have rallied around Dolan, expressing shock and sadness over the attack.
Police Scotland is asking anyone with information about the assault to contact them directly or call Crimestoppers anonymously at 0800 555 111.
Local residents have expressed their shock and sympathy for Dolan. “Daniel’s a good man—he’s always helping out,” said one neighbour, who wished to remain anonymous. “Whoever did this needs to face justice.” The case has also drawn attention to the broader issue of crime in the Possilpark area, where break-ins have fueled tensions. However, as Sheryl pointed out, the real culprit remains at large while an innocent man suffers.
For those looking to support Daniel or provide information, Police Scotland’s website offers a portal to report anonymously. The family hopes that public pressure and police efforts will lead to the attacker’s swift apprehension. “You should be ashamed of yourself,” Sheryl concluded in her post, a sentiment echoed by many who have followed the story.
This case of mistaken identity serves as a stark reminder of the human cost of rash actions.
