Two teenage girls injured in Portobello Road '˜hit and run'

Police attend an incident on Portobello Road which saw the road closed to traffic. Picture: Greg Macvean

Witnesses described how the girls, believed to be Italian students, had been hit by a blue Volkswagen Golf which then sped off.

Emergency services were called to the scene early yesterday evening, where onlookers saw them treating one of the girls lying on the road.

The road was closed in both directions and buses and other traffic were diverted via alternative routes.

Portobello Road has been closed both ways by police. Picture: Greg Macvean

The road was reopened within an hour but witnesses were left shaken by what they saw.

A resident of Portobello Road, who did not wish to be named, said: “It was bad.

“There was loads of police and about three ambulances.

“We saw a girl lying on the road and the paramedics were treating her.

“We were told not to come out of our houses for a while and no cars could get into the street.

“We just hope everyone is OK, it looked horrible.”

Police said they were investigating the hit and run.

A spokesman said: “A Volkswagen Golf was involved in a collision with two female pedestrians during the incident, which happened around 5.40pm in Inchview Terrace.

“A 16-year-old sustained and arm injury, while a 17-year-old suffered an injury to her leg. Both were taken to the Edinburgh Royal Infirmary where they continue to be treated.

“The vehicle was recovered a short time later and inquiries are ongoing to trace the driver and any other occupants.

“Anyone with information that can assist officers with their investigation is asked to contact police immediately.”

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