Teen ‘opens eyes’ after two weeks in hospital

A TEENAGER who suffered severe head injuries in an alleged assault has been moved out of intensive care — two weeks after being found lying in the street.

A family friend said today that he had opened his eyes briefly and had been moved into assisted care.

The 17-year-old was rushed to Ninewells Hospital after being found by members of the public in Adelaide Place, in the Dudhope area of the city, early on the morning of December 23.

A city taxi driver is known to have gone to his aid when he was found close to the Law.

The family friend said the teenager had been in a coma until late last week but was now gradually regaining consciousness.

The friend said: “His mum and other family members are continuing their bedside vigil.

“Their son is now stable. His family are very encouraged at his progress so far but there is still a long way to go.”

The friend said the teenager had reacted to his mum being in his hospital room by opening his eyes briefly.

She said: “He is not fully awake but he opened his eyes for a second and held on to her hand.

“He has not been sedated for a few days now and he is making little improvements.

“It’s just a waiting game but he is likely to be in hospital for quite a long time to come.”

The teenager was discovered by a taxi driver at 5.30am on December 23.

Adelaide Place was cordoned off while scenes of crime officers in white suits investigated the area for two days.

Wheelie bins were seen placed strategically in the street and are believed to have been covering evidence.

Local residents said they were shocked about what had happened but said they had not been aware of the incident until emergency services arrived.

One woman said at the time: “It is very upsetting that this has happened.”

Two 15-year-old boys have been charged with assault following the incident.

A Police Scotland spokesman said: “A report on the circumstances is being sent to the procurator fiscal.”