Edinburgh nightclub boss shuts down sick rumours he was the man decapitated in horror bus incident

THE owner of one of Edinburgh's most popular night-time venues has hit out following vile rumours naming him as a man who was decapitated in a horror bus incident.

John McWilliams, boss of Liquid Rooms nightclub, posted a video online telling people he is "alive and kicking".

On Saturday night, a pensioner died after he was struck by a single-decker bus in the capital's Cowgate area.

The 74-year-old suffered catastrophic injuries which left his head "severed" from his body.

Yesterday, Mr Williams shared a video titled 'Still Alive' on his social media.

The businessman said: "Good morning everyone. It's 11.41 and, yes, I'm still alive.

"My condolences go out to whoever did die in the Grassmarket last night. But I can assure you, I'm alive and kicking.

"Social media - such a dangerous thing. This has upset so many people.

"But, I'll see you on Friday."

Friends showed their support for John and relief that he is safe and well.

One person wrote: "Thank God for that pal."

Another commented: "Terrible thing to have happened, glad your okay though."

A third said: "Glad to hear mick and spot on about social media."

It's believed the tragic OAP fell onto the road and was struck by a bus, as Halloween revellers partied nearby in the busy city centre spot.

Emergency crews rushed to the scene after the alarm was raised and police locked down the scene.

Forensic officers in white overalls and facemasks also attended.

Cops are continuing to investigate the circumstances surrounding the pensioner's death and are urging any witnesses to get in touch.

Sergeant Louise Birrell, of Edinburgh's road policing unit, said: “Our thoughts are with the family and friends of the man who died.

“Extensive enquiries are ongoing to establish the full circumstances of this incident.

“Officers have spoken to a number of people who were in the area at the time and work is ongoing to check public and private CCTV footage.

“We are still keen to hear from anyone who has not yet spoken to police. If you have any information about what happened, then please get in touch.

“Anyone with information is asked to call the police via 101. Please quote incident number 3395 of Saturday, 2 November 2024.”