Two arrested and charged over Ferry Road hit and run

A local man has appeared at Edinburgh Sheriff Court following the recent hit and run collision near Drylaw Police Station. 

Conor Whalen faces 12 charges including causing serious injury by dangerous driving, failing to stop and report a collision and theft of a motorbike. The 20-year-old made no plea or declaration during the private hearing. He was remanded in custody and will appear at a later date.

A 22-year-old man has also been charged in connection with the incident and will be reported to the Procurator Fiscal for theft of a motorcycle, dangerous driving and attempting to pervert the course of justice. He is currently on remand in connection with unrelated offences.

A local 10-year-old boy sustained serious injuries in the collision and he continues to be treated at the Royal Hospital for Sick Children following the incident on Ferry Road on Saturday 19th August.

There has been a heightened police presence in the area since the incident while investigations continued and police have thanked the local community for their assistance.

Senior investigating officer Detective Chief Inspector Paul Grainger said: “Since this incident occurred we have dedicated significant resources to the investigation, resulting in two men having now been charged. I’d like to thank all of those who came forward with information that has greatly assisted with our inquiries.”

Chief Inspector Stevie Sutherland, the new Local Area Commander for North West Edinburgh, said: “We recognise the profound impact this incident had on those who live within the local area, as well as the wider Edinburgh community who have been incredibly supportive to not only police, but to the young boy and his family.

“Motorcycle theft and associated crime is a matter that we continue to address through our outstanding Stronger North partnership and the city-wide Operation Soteria initiative.

“Offences like this will not be tolerated and whenever incidents of motorcycle theft or the antisocial or criminal use of these vehicles is reported, we will conduct a robust investigation to bring those responsible to justice.”