Flat stormed after ‘murder bid’

Officers in riot gear attend after reports of a man being slashed across face

A major police investigation was launched last night after a suspected murder bid in a Perth street.

A man soaked in blood was spotted outside a Polish food shop on Crieff Road. The victim was rushed to hospital by an ambulance crew, while police locked down the area.

Officers in riot gear were scrambled to flats in nearby Viewfield Place where those believed to be responsible for the attack were said to have barricaded themselves inside. The attack prompted a major police response, with nine emergency vehicles – including three riot vans – in attendance.

Inspector Martin Pattie said last night: “I would like to thank members of the public for their co-operation and patience.

“This was a contained incident, there was no risk to the general public and investigations are continuing.”

Police in riot gear were scrambled to a Perth neighbourhood after reports that a man had been slashed across the face.

Part of Crieff Road was locked down yesterday evening after what is believed to have been a frenzied knife attack.

Investigators are understood to be treating the incident as attempted murder.

The attack triggered a major police response, with nine emergency service vehicles called to the area, including three riot vans and a dog team.

The male victim was attacked in Viewfield Place just after 4pm.

A man described as “soaked in blood” was seen by one witness outside the Polish Taste food shop shortly afterwards.

The man was rushed to hospital by an ambulance crew.

His condition was not known last night.

Police in protective gear and carrying shields, who were seen outside the shop on Crieff Road, were called to flats on Viewfield Place where those responsible for the assault were believed to have barricaded themselves inside.

Police would not confirm speculation that the victim was an employee at the shop.

In a statement issued at 7.30pm, police inspector Martin Pattie said: “I would like to thank members of the public for their co-operation and patience.

“This was a contained incident, there was no risk to the general public and investigations are continuing.”

Part of Crieff Road around the Polish shop was closed down just before 5pm and reopened at about 6.30pm.

One resident said: “The whole place just filled with blue flashing lights.

“No one really knew what was happening, there were rumours flying all over the place.”

She said: “It was really sad to see. It’s always been a popular shop and the staff always seem really friendly.”

The incident attracted large crowds to the cordoned off zone.

Anyone with information is urged to call Police Scotland on 101 or freephone Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

The shop where the injured man fled.

Above: A man “soaked in blood” was seen by one witness outside the Polish Taste shop. Below and right: There was a large police presence.