Taxi driver accused of murder bid

A taxi driver is facing attempted murder charges after mowing down a teenager in Paisley town centre.

The frightening attack, which left the 15-year-old victim in hospital with a leg injury, took place in County Square in the early hours of Saturday morning.

It’s understood that the teen and the driver were involved in a spat at around 1am before the drama unfolded.

The enraged driver then mounted the pavement in his taxi in a bid to run over the youngster near to the Last Post pub.

Horrified revellers looked on as he performed a U-turn to drive at the startled teen a second time after he managed to dodge the black taxi on the first attempt.

The taxi struck the boy on the leg before cops were called to the scene.

An ambulance was called and paramedics took the injured youth to Paisley’s Royal Alexandra Hospital where doctors said he had suffered minor leg injuries.

Witnesses said the taxi driver remained at the rank until the police arrived to arrest him.

After carrying out enquiries surrounding the shocking incident a Police Scotland spokesman last night said it was being treated as an attempted murder.

He added: “Officers were called to an incident in County Square, Paisley, at 12.56am on Saturday, August 26, where a 15-year-old male had suffered leg injuries after being struck by a vehicle.

“He was taken to the Royal Alexandra Hospital for treatment to leg injuries.

“The injuries are not serious and the 15-year-old was later released from hospital.

“An attempted murder investigation is under way.”

A 71-year-old man is expected to appear at Paisley Sheriff Court in connection with attempted murder charges.