Man 'targeted' woman in Edinburgh attack before car set on fire in Pilton

A man attacked a woman on Christmas night before escaping in a car which was later set ablaze in Edinburgh.

The 32-year-old was injured when the suspect assaulted her in a “targeted attack” in the Graysknowe area before climbing into the passenger side of a dark-coloured Volkswagen parked nearby and leaving.

The car was later found to be parked on West Pilton Lea by two men, however emergency crews were called out shortly after 11:30pm when a man was seen setting the vehicle alight.

Officers have since launched an appeal for information over the incident.

The suspect is described as being a white man, around 6ft and slim build, wearing a black padded jacket, black jogging bottoms and black trainers.

The woman did not require hospital treatment.

Detective inspector Kevin Tait, from Corstorphine CID, said: “This appears to have been a targeted attack and we can be thankful that the victim was not more seriously injured.

“We are appealing to anyone with information, or was in either the Graysknowe or West Pilton Lea areas and witnessed anything suspicious, to please come forward.

“You can contact police on 101, quoting incident 1821 of December 25. Alternatively, please call Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111, if you wish to remain anonymous.”