Elgin man in critical condition after sustaining head injury in attack by teenager

A man is in a critical condition in hospital after sustaining a serious head injury following an alleged attack by a youth.

The 25-year-old was rushed to hospital shortly after 10.45pm on Saturday evening after the incident on Elgin High Street.

The man was accosted by the teenager, thought to be around 14, near the fountain on the street, opposite the Virgin Money premises.

An altercation occurred which resulted in the man being knocked to the ground, before the youth, thought to be in a group of nine others, fled the scene towards Alexandra Road via North Street.

Officers are now appealing for any witnesses to come forward and have asked any of the group of youngsters to contact police immediately.

One of the youths was said to be wearing a grey jumper at the time of the attack.

Detective inspector Andrew Wilson said: “It is vital that we trace the group of youths involved and a team of detectives are carrying out enquiries, including interviewing witness and reviewing CCTV footage, to gain an understanding of the exact circumstances which led to this man being seriously injured.

“I am grateful to the witnesses who have already provided police with information and would urge any further witnesses who may be able to assist us to come forward urgently. I also appeal directly to the group of youths themselves and would encourage them to make contact with police.

“At the time we know the area of Elgin High Street was busy with pedestrians. Think back – did you seen a group of male youths at this time, or shortly afterwards?”

DI Wilson added: “They are believed to have run from the High Street, down North Street towards Alexandra Road. If you were driving in this area do you have dash-cam footage which shows this group of people running away from the scene? Or do you have relevant private CCTV? If so, we ask you to contact the enquiry team as soon as a matter of urgency.

“If you have any information which can help us, please call 101 quoting incident 4107 of April 30 or call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.”