Man attacked with hammer in 'violent and unprovoked' assault

The incident occurred at around 11.35pm on February 1 on the capital's Albert Street.

Edinburgh man struck on head with hammer in ‘violent and unprovoked’ attack — CCTV: Man sought by police after another was struck in the back of a head with a hammer. Police Scotland

9th Mar 2023

CCTV images of a man sought by police have been released after another man was struck in the back of a head with a hammer in Edinburgh.

The incident occurred at around 11.35pm on February 1 on the capital’s Albert Street.

The 31-year-old man was struck on the back of his head with a hammer, resulting in “serious injuries”.

He was taken to hospital for treatment, and police said it had left him “highly distressed”.

The CCTV images are of a man officers believe may have information which could help their investigation.

He is described as white, between 20 and 30-years-old, between 5ft 8in and 5ft 10in tall, and with a medium build.

He was wearing a dark woolly hat, a dark jacket with a small light logo on the left breast and rear right shoulder, black trousers with a white vertical stripe on each leg, and black trainers.

Detective constable Euan Chancellor, Violence Reduction Unit at Gayfield CID, said: “This was an unprovoked attack which was highly distressing for the victim who suffered a serious injury.

“Violent crime such as this is of the utmost concern to police in Edinburgh so I would urge anyone who recognises the male in the images to contact us as soon as possible.

“Members of the public can contact Police Scotland via 101, quoting reference number 0044 of February 2, 2023 or, if they wish to remain anonymous, they can call the independent charity, Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.”