VICTIM OF SAVAGE ATTACK SHOWS INJURIES
BY JANE HAMILTON Crime Reporter A MAN who was repeatedly stabbed and battered senseless in a murder bid during New Year celebrations has released pictures of his horrific injuries.
Rhys Reynolds was set upon in the street an hour before the Bells on Monday night.
The 25-year-old was stabbed five times, punched and kicked during the gang attack, which left him needing emergency surgery for a bleed on the brain.
He had 65 stitches inserted into his wounds and was told by medics that a gash that was six inches deep came close to leaving him paralysed.
He is currently in Edinburgh Royal Infirmary, where he posted shocking images on social media showing the extent of his injuries.
Friends expressed their shock at the photos, branding the thugs behind the attack “animals”.
Rhys, from Tranent, East Lothian, told his friends on social media: “Been stabbed 4/5 times. Just out of surgery. Nine cuts and stab wounds.”
He later added: “Thank you everyone. Am back on my feet. My eyes open. Once the bleeding in the brain stops, I’ll be home.”
After being discharged from hospital yesterday, Rhys told his friends: “Discharged and 100 per cent active.
“Jumped by 5/6/7 people, stabbed and slashed. One was six inches deep and was inches away from making me paralysed. 65 stitches.”
Hours before the attack, he had posted a New Year message, saying: “Happy New Year when it comes to friends and family and everyone in general. Wish you all the best.
“Hope everyone has the best night and day tomorrow.”
Detectives said they are treating the attack in Musselburgh, East Lothian, as attempted murder and have asked witnesses to contact them.
They said they received several calls from worried residents when the disturbance broke out in the town’s Delta Drive at about 10.55pm on Hogmanay.
Witnesses reported several people attacking Rhys before he was found with serious injuries on the street.
Detective Chief Inspector Paul Batten said: “This was a largescale attack which has left a man in hospital with serious head and facial injuries.
“Anyone who heard or witnessed the incident is asked to get in touch so we can identify those responsible for this assault.”