A major incident has rocked Edinburgh’s lively Cowgate area after unconfirmed reports suggested a ‘severed head’ was found in the street. Police Scotland confirmed they were responding to a serious road traffic incident involving a pedestrian being struck by a vehicle, but further details have yet to be officially released.
Emergency services were dispatched to the scene shortly after 7:30 p.m. on Saturday, November 2, with multiple roads in the city’s Old Town sealed off. The streets affected include Blair Street, Guthrie Street, and Candlemaker Row, which remain closed as officers and forensic teams continue their work. Witnesses described a heavy police presence and the area being taped off, with images showing a body covered by a white sheet and a forensic tent erected at the scene.
An eyewitness have said: “Police just appeared and started putting tape up. Whatever it is, it looks pretty serious. There doesn’t look to be any cars inside the cordon anyway.”
The closure of the streets has disrupted nearby venues and businesses, including nightclubs and Halloween-themed events. The dance school Bachata Blues shared a statement on social media, saying: “Following police instructions, all venues are going to be closed tonight due to a major incident. All ways to enter Cowgate are cut off. Unfortunately, we have to cancel tonight’s event as Mash House will remain closed all night. We will be back soon & hope to reschedule our night as soon as possible!”
Major police incident in Edinburgh’s Cowgate this evening. Police say they’re responding to a road traffic incident, and much of the surrounding area is still in lockdown. pic.twitter.com/BLTetYBkWQ
— Forth 1 News (@Forth1News) November 2, 2024
Police Scotland released a statement urging the public to stay clear of the area. A spokesperson said, “Officers in Edinburgh are currently dealing with a serious road traffic collision in the Cowgate area of the city. Shortly after 7:30 p.m. on Saturday, November 2, we responded to reports of a pedestrian being struck by a vehicle. Enquiries are ongoing.”
Authorities continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding the incident, and forensic teams remain on-site. Residents and visitors are advised to avoid the area until further notice as police continue their work. Further updates will be provided as more information becomes available.
