Murder bid probe cops make appeal for vital witness
Man was seen talking to thugs prior to attack
Cops probing an attempted murder attack in Paisley are renewing appeals for a key witness.
A mystery man was seen speaking to three thugs who to tried to kill a dad in front of two terrified children.
Victims Christopher Mellon, 26, and Donna Galloway, 33, were repeatedly slashed when brutes in white coveralls and masks burst into their flat at Ferguslie Park Avenue on Monday evening.
Mr Mellon has been left with lifethreatening injuries after the thugs threatened to decapitate him.
His partner Ms Galloway suffered wounds to her head and shoulder.
Detective Inspector Ross MacDonald, leading the inquiry, is appealing for a man seen giving directions to the trio – moments before the attack – to come forward.
He said: “From CCTV inquiries we have detected a man who was approached by the occupants of the white VW Golf.
“As he was walking along Ferguslie Park Avenue, across from the roundabout, he was seen to engage in conversation with the three individuals in the car.
“The car stopped and it is as though they asked him for directions to a house.”
Cops describe the man as having dark hair, wearing a light coloured top with dark trousers. He is of medium build and in his mid 20s or early 30s.
The trio were seen speaking to him at 7.35pm on Monday evening shortly before the horror attack took place at the family home.
Cops stress the man is a potential witness and would like to speak to him as he may hold vital information about the attackers.
The victims managed to summon help after they were slashed and were taken to Glasgow’s Royal Infirmary by ambulance.
The driver of a blue and green coloured SSE works van was also seen at nearby Dalskeith Avenue around the time of the attack, has been traced.
DI MacDonald added the barbarity of the attack which took place in the presence of two young tots, has sickened the community.
He said: “These traumatic events have had a devastating impact on the lives of young children who witnessed this despicable act of violence. Anyone who may hold details, no matter how small or unimportant it may seem, is urged to contact police.”
People with information are urged to call police in Paisley on 101.
Alternatively, they can ring CrimeStoppers on 0800 555 111, where anonymity can be maintained.