Shopkeeper Slashed in Unprovoked Attack in Lanark

A shopkeeper is in stable condition at Wishaw General Hospital after being attacked with a bladed weapon outside his convenience store in Lanark. The incident occurred on September 7, 2025, at approximately 08:50 when the 53-year-old man was approached while taking out bins from the store located on Coalburn Road.

Emergency services responded swiftly to the scene, and the injured man was transported to the hospital following the assault. According to local police, the attack appears to be unprovoked, with the victim specifically targeted by the assailant prior to the incident.

Details of the Attack and Suspect Description

Authorities reported that the suspect is described as a male, approximately 6 feet tall with a slim build. At the time of the attack, he was wearing black jogging bottoms, a black North Face hooded top with white writing, a black snood, white trainers, and distinctive orange gloves. After the assault, he was seen fleeing towards Dunns Crescent.

Detective Constable Alison Geal from the Lanarkshire CID provided insight into the investigation. “From our enquiries so far, we believe this attack to be totally unprovoked but that the person who was attacked was the target of the suspect,” she stated. Geal highlighted that the suspect had been observed hiding in nearby bushes for at least two hours before the shopkeeper exited the store.

The police are actively reviewing CCTV footage from the area, which has yielded limited information due to the suspect’s clothing obscuring much of his face. “This was a nasty attack. There appears to have been no attempt by the suspect to enter the store,” Geal added, emphasizing the seriousness of the incident.

Community Appeal for Information

The convenience store is situated in a residential area, surrounded by numerous homes, prompting police to increase their presence in the vicinity. Authorities are appealing to the public for assistance, particularly those with doorbell cameras or dash cam footage that might provide additional details. “We believe the suspect knows the area. He may be local,” Detective Constable Geal noted.

Anyone with information that could aid the investigation is urged to contact the police, referencing incident number 1074. The police are keen to gather any leads that could identify the individual responsible for this violent act.

The incident has left the local community shaken, raising concerns about safety in the area. As the investigation continues, authorities are committed to ensuring justice for the victim and apprehending the suspect.