Nightclub proprietor speaks after sick severed head rumours – ‘this has upset so many individuals’
The owner of an Edinburgh nightclub has been forced to speak out saying he was not the man whose severed head was found on the street.
The decapitated head of a man has been found in the Cowsgate area of the Scottish city, an area known for its pubs and bars. The city has been rocked by the news, with police urging members of the public to show care and responsibility regarding imaging and misinformation surrounding the incident.
One man who has already paid a price for the flurry of speculation is Liquid Rooms owner, John ‘Mick’ McWilliams, who has been forced to say that he is still alive following some claiming it had been his head.
(Image: Facebook)
Police were called to Cowgate at around 7.30pm on Saturday, November 2, following reports that a 74-year-old man had been hit by a bus.
Images of police tents and forensic officers soon began to circulate widely. The identity of the man has not been made public yet rampant speculation and trolls left Mr McWilliams forced to say: “Good morning everyone, it’s 11.45am and yes, I am still alive. My condolences go out to whoever did die in the Grassmarket last night. I can assure you I am alive and kicking.”
He added: “Social media, such a dangerous thing. This has upset so many people.”
Social media has also seen graphic images shared appearing to show the remains of an individual, leading to widespread sharing, sparking police to issue an urgent plea to bring it to a halt and protect the victim’s family.
(Image: PA)
Chief Inspector Trisha Clark said: “We are aware of videos and images circulating on social media which are causing distress to the deceased’s family and those viewing them inadvertently.
“We would ask members of the public not to share them out of respect for his family, and to report them to the relevant social media platform to prevent further circulation. There has been a lot of speculation, and I would like to reassure the local community that this was an isolated incident and there is no risk to the wider public.
“This was a tragic incident. We are investigating a crash, and our road policing officers, assisted by local officers, are continuing to carry out enquiries. Anyone with concerns or any information which could assist the investigation should contact police.”
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