Man 'who stole car and set it on fire' wanted following assault in Edinburgh

An appeal has been launched after a man was assaulted by a man who escaped in a stolen vehicle in Edinburgh.

Officers were called to Cumnor Crescent at around 8.35pm on Saturday, after a 36-year-old was attacked with a weapon by a man.

The man then entered a brown Mitsubishi Outlander, which was revealed to be stolen, before driving off towards Glenvarloch Crescent.

The vehicle, which is described as distinctive with roof bars and a tow bar at the rear, was then discovered on fire in Foxglove Close, at around 12.10am on Monday.

The suspect is described as white, in his mid to late teens, around 5ft 6in tall and of skinny build, and was wearing a tracksuit, with a black balaclava, black gloves, and possibly a black body warmer

Detective inspector Kevin Tait, from Edinburgh CID, said: “Thankfully the man was not injured but it is vital we trace those responsible.

“Police are keen to speak to anyone who might have information to help trace those responsible.

“This appears to have been a targeted attack and we do not believe there was any risk to the wider public.

“A brown Mitsubishi Outlander was discovered on fire in Foxglove Close, Edinburgh, and we believe it may be linked to the incident.

“I would like to hear from anyone who recognises the vehicle and may have information about its movements over the past few days.

“We’re also keen to hear from anyone with potential dashcam footage or private CCTV, as it could prove vital to our enquiries.”

Anyone with any information is asked to contact 101 quoting incident number 3142 of January 7, 2023.

Alternatively, please call Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 where information can be given anonymously.