ATM explosion hurts suspected thief

Police suspect a man who was critically injured following an explosion at a Clydebank row of shops was trying to steal an ATM.

Officers were called to the incident about 11:40pm on Thursday night.

The explosion occurred at an ATM outside the Premier Stores and Farmfoods shop on Glasgow Road in the Yoker area of the city.

A 51-year-old man was found at the scene. He was taken to the Queen Elizabeth University Hospital where his condition is described as critical. Another man was spotted fleeing the area.

Police have claimed the men may have been attempting to steal the cash machine, which was mounted in a wall.

The explosion left parts of the ATM scattered across the car park.

Nearby residents reported hearing a loud bang between 11pm and midnight.

Detective Inspector Fiona Macarthur said: “Inquiries are at a very early stage to establish the full circumstances and officers are currently examining CCTV as well as speaking to local businesses and residents.

“One line of inquiry is that two men were attempting to steal the ATM and one of them has been injured in the process.

“I would appeal to anyone who was in the area late last night and saw or heard anything suspicious to please get in touch.”