Murder investigation launched after man dies following 'random attack' at Edinburgh bus stop

A murder investigation has been launched after a man died following a “random attack” at a bus stop in Edinburgh.

Nashir Ahmed, 65, and his friend, 48, were approached by a man while waiting at a bus stop on Ferry Road near to its junction with Great Junction Street, at around 8.30pm on Sunday.

The pair were then subjected to an “unprovoked” assaulted.

Emergency services were called to the scene and both men were taken to the Royal Infirmary in Edinburgh for treatment.

The 48-year-old friend of Mr Ahmed was discharged after receiving treatment for serious leg and facial injuries.

Mr Ahmed died in hospital on Friday.

Detectives have now launched a murder investigation and are renewing an appeal for any information.

The suspect has been described as black, around 30 years of age, with short, dark hair. When last seen he was wearing a red tartan scarf and a long, black jacket with a hood.

Detective chief inspector George Calder said: “Our thoughts and condolences are with Mr Ahmed’s family and the other victim and specialist officers are supporting them during this extremely difficult time.

“This was a completely random and unprovoked assault on Mr Ahmed and his friend and it is absolutely vital that we trace the individual responsible for this despicable and senseless crime.

“Ferry Road would have been busy around the time and we would continue to urge anyone who witnessed this attack as well as anyone with dash-cam or private CCVV footage of the area which could be of significance, to please get in touch.

“Incidents of this nature can understandably cause concern to the local community however we are following a number of positive lines of enquiry and there will continue to be additional patrols in the area to provide reassurance.

“Anyone with information should contact 101 quoting reference 2805 of March 10. Alternatively Crimestoppers can be contacted on 0800 555 111, where anonymity can be maintained.”