A 12-year-old boy sustained facial injuries, requiring stitches, and suffered a swollen jaw and eye socket following an assault by a group of individuals. Connor McGowan was reportedly targeted by the assailants when he intervened to protect his female friend from the gang. The attackers allegedly used a bottle and a knife during the incident, resulting in injuries to Connor’s face, as well as cuts on his legs and head. The violent attack occurred near Dundee’s High Street on Friday evening.
According to his mother, Lori Roache, Connor and his two friends, a 14-year-old boy, and a 17-year-old girl, were returning home to Springfield, Fife, when they encountered a group of approximately 20 teenagers. The situation escalated when the group targeted Connor’s female friend, prompting him to intervene and attempt to leave with his friends.
Lori described the attackers as behaving like a “pack of animals,” with one individual holding a knife to Connor’s face and another striking him with a bottle. The group then proceeded to physically assault Connor, causing severe injuries. His friends were also hurt during the altercation.
After receiving a distressing message from one of Connor’s friends, Lori rushed to Dundee and transported him to Ninewells Hospital for treatment. Connor was eventually discharged but remains deeply traumatized by the incident. He will require further medical follow-ups to monitor his recovery and ensure no lasting damage.
Expressing her shock and concern, Lori emphasized the seriousness of the attack and the emotional impact it has had on her son. She vowed to be cautious about allowing him out of the house in the future, fearing for his safety. Lori urged authorities to apprehend the perpetrators before they harm someone else.
Police in Scotland have initiated an investigation into the assault, which took place in an alleyway near Dundee’s High Street. The authorities are actively working to identify and locate those responsible for the attack, which left two other individuals, aged 14 and 17, injured.
