POLICE OFFICERS WERE on the streets of Moray in the early hours yesterday – exactly one week after an attack on a 44-year-old woman left her hospitalised.
Officers were stopping and speaking with motorists in the area of the attack in an attempt to find if anyone had seen anything out of the ordinary on Thursday, October 26.
Around 40 motorists who use the routes around the Woodside Terrace area were spoken to between 4.45am and 5.30am – roughly the time that the victim had left her home a week earlier.
Detective Inspector Norman Stevenson, who is leading the investigation, said: “I would like to thank the motorists that we stopped today for their patience and assistance as we continue to carry out extensive enquiries into this brutal assault.
“The information we received this morning will build on the picture we already have in terms of who passes through the area and at what time, and if any individuals looked out of place in the minutes before and after this incident last week.
“Without being able to speak to the woman involved yet because of the severity of her injuries, we are relying on the public at this crucial time to provide us with information. It is essential we piece together the moments leading up to the assault and build a picture of her life and acquaintances.”
Insp Stevenson added that someone, somewhere knows what happened that morning – and he is urging them to look into their conscience and come forward with information by calling Police on 101 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555111 in confidence.
He added: “She was on her way to get a bus on East Road so I would continue to appeal to anyone who was out walking or driving in the area and saw anything unusual to get in touch – or to anyone with dashcam footage who was in the Newmill Road, Pansport Road or South Lesmurdie areas of Elgin. Please quote incident number 0354 of October 26.
“At the time of the incident, which took place at a lane near Woodside Terrace, the woman was wearing a light-coloured jacket, blue jeans, brown boots and was carrying a black handbag.
“Even if you think your information might be insignificant, I would respectfully ask you to let us make that assessment and come forward.”