Police appeal for information on car involved in Ocean Terminal hit and run

Published on 30/07/2012 14:12

LOTHIAN and Borders Police today appealed for information about a car which is believed to have been involved in a fatal hit and run incident in Edinburgh on Sunday.

A man, in his 30s, died in hospital after suffering head and internal injuries in the accident in the city’s Ocean Drive at Leith.

Police are keen to trace a silver Vauxhall Astra hatchback, possibly three door, which was seen in the area at the time and which will have suffered damage to its underside.

It is understood the man had been lying in the bus lane of Ocean Drive, close to Ocean Terminal when he was run over by a car just before 2am. He was rushed to Edinburgh Royal Infirmary where he later died from his injuries.

A spokesman for Lothian and Borders Police said: “This has been a horrific accident which has resulted in the death of a man.

“The driver fled the scene despite the car suffering damage to its underside and leaking engine coolant.

“We are keen to trace the driver and the vehicle involved. It is clear that the car was badly damaged and that damage will be obvious to anyone who uses it. “

Following the accident a trail of engine coolant led from the scene to the corner of Ocean Drive and Commercial Street where a passing driver saw a car, which was heading eastwards, stopped with its bonnet raised.

The police spokesman added: “We are appealing for anyone who recognises this car to come forward. In particular, we would like to hear from any service stations or other outlets who may have sold water or engine coolant to the driver of a silver hatchback in the early hours of this morning.”

The identity of the victim will not be released until next of kin have been informed.

Anyone with information about this incident is asked to contact Lothian and Borders Police on 01313113131 or the charity Crimestoppers on 0800555111.