Edinburgh Cowgate victim named by police after being decapitated in horror fall under bus

A PENSIONER who was decapitated following a horror late night crash in Edinburgh has been named by police.

Michael Leneghan, 74, was killed in the tragic accident in the capital's Cowgate on Saturday night at around 7.25pm.

The OAP, who was from the city, suffered catastrophic injuries following the crash.

It's believed he fell onto the road and was struck by a bus which left him decapitated.

His family has released a statement, which said: "We wish to thank all the members of the public and emergency services involved.

"We would now ask for privacy at this time."

Cops closed a number of roads in the area to allow officers to carry out their investigation.

And venues in the area were ordered to shut immediately after what was initially described as a "road traffic incident".

Forensics were at the scene on Saturday night, with a tent put up in the middle of the street.

Halloween revellers in Cowgate were forced to cut their party short following the tragedy.

A reveller who was out drinking in the Supercube karaoke bar claimed he was told to evacuate after a man’s head was discovered just metres away.

They added: "I was in Supercube karaoke bar with friends when we were rushed out and told to evacuate.

"We were told a serious incident had taken place but the police would not advise of any more details.";

Police previously urged people to avoid sharing images and videos of the incident being circulated online.

Officers confirmed that enquiries are still ongoing, and have spoken to a number of people who were in the area at the time.

They have urged anyone with information to get in touch.

Sergeant Paul Ewing, of the Road Policing Unit in Edinburgh, said: “Our thoughts remain with Michael’s family and friends, as well as everyone affected by this tragic incident.

“Our enquiries remain ongoing. We have already 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.”