The family of an Aberdeen schoolboy who was left badly burned in a chemical attack have spoken of the moment he arrived home “screaming in pain”.
Shane Flower, 12, and his friend, also 12, were walking on Granitehill Road near the Coral bookmakers at about 8pm last night when they were attacked.
UPDATE: Police: ‘No assault and no crime’ after reported chemical attack on Aberdeen schoolboys
Both boys were taken to Aberdeen Royal Infirmary and are being treated with serious burns.
Today, Shane’s family released a picture of his injuries as the hunt for his attackers continues.
His sister, Gemma Florence, 25, said the family now fear some of the damage could be permanent.
“I was at work at the time and my mum phoned me. She was hysterical,” she told the Evening Express.
“My mum could see the blue part under his eye and we were terrified he would be blinded by it.”
She added: “Shane is conscious about what people think of him so I think he is really worried he is scarred for life.”
This morning, fire crews were seen in the area washing down the pavement.
Police are now searching for two youths thought to be responsible, after branding them “despicable”.
Officers say there are believed to have been wearing dark clothing and gloves at the time of the incident.
A Police Scotland spokesman said: “Police Scotland is appealing for information after two boys were assaulted in the Northfield area of Aberdeen.
“The boys had a substance thrown at them which caused burn-type injuries.
“The area where the incident happened has been cordoned off to allow the scene to be examined.”
Detective Inspector Allen Shaw, who is leading the investigation, said: “This has been a shocking and despicable incident against two young boys who have obviously been left upset and shaken by what has happened to them. They have been left with significant injuries and were taken to the Royal Aberdeen Children’s Hospital for treatment.
“Extensive inquiries are ongoing to trace those responsible and we are working with our colleagues in the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service as part of our investigation. There will be a police presence in the area for some time, however the scene where this incident happened has been examined and I can assure the public it is safe.
“I would appeal for anyone with information about the incident, whether you were in the area at the time or know anything about it, to please get in touch. You can contact Police Scotland on 101, via the Police Scotland website or via the charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555111 if you would prefer to remain anonymous
“I can assure the local community that all resources available to us will be used to trace those responsible. It won’t be tolerated.”