A New Year’s Eve Celebration Turned Tragic
What should have been a night of celebration turned into one of horror on Hogmanay in Edinburgh, Scotland. Just minutes before the clock struck midnight on December 31, 2023, gunfire rang out outside a local pub, ending in tragedy. The incident resulted in the death of 38-year-old Marc Webley and left another man, aged 39, seriously injured.
This shocking crime took place outside the Anchor Inn on West Granton Road, sending shockwaves through the local community and beyond. Police and emergency services rushed to the scene at approximately 11:50 p.m., responding to reports of a firearm being discharged in the area.
Victim Identified as Marc Webley
Marc Webley, a 38-year-old man from Edinburgh, succumbed to his injuries in hospital shortly after the shooting. Webley’s death has rocked the local community, prompting an outpouring of grief from friends and neighbors. Known to many in the Granton area, his death was described by locals as “senseless” and “devastating.”
Police Scotland confirmed his identity in the days following the incident and have since been treating the event as a murder investigation.
Details of the Incident
What Happened on the Night of December 31?
According to official reports, the incident occurred just before midnight outside the Anchor Inn, a well-known local establishment in the West Granton area of Edinburgh. Witnesses reported hearing loud bangs that were initially mistaken for fireworks. It wasn’t until chaos erupted on the street outside the pub that it became clear something far more serious had happened.
Emergency responders were on the scene within minutes. Both Webley and another 39-year-old man, who has not yet been publicly named, were rushed to hospital. While the second victim survived, he was described as having suffered “serious injuries.”
Police Response and Scene Containment
Police Scotland immediately cordoned off the area, with a significant uniformed presence remaining in place for days following the shooting. Forensic teams conducted thorough investigations throughout New Year’s Day and into the following week.
Detective Superintendent Graham Grant, from the Major Investigation Team, has been leading the inquiry. In a statement, he said:
“This was a targeted incident that has shocked the local community. We’d like to thank the public for their patience and support as we carry out our inquiries. We are determined to bring those responsible to justice.”
Arrests Made in Connection With the Shooting
Suspects in Custody
On Friday, January 5, 2024, Police Scotland confirmed the arrest of two individuals in connection with the fatal shooting. A 32-year-old man and a 25-year-old woman were taken into custody as the investigation entered a new phase.
The identities of the arrested individuals have not yet been released publicly, and formal charges had not been announced at the time of writing. Police emphasized that inquiries remain ongoing and that they are continuing to piece together the events of that night.
Ongoing Investigation
Authorities are urging anyone with information or footage from the area on the night of the incident to come forward. They are particularly interested in any dashcam footage from vehicles near West Granton Road between 11:00 p.m. and midnight on December 31.
The incident is being treated as a targeted attack, although police have not released any information regarding possible motives or the relationship between the suspects and the victims.
Community Reaction
Shock and Sorrow in Granton
The shooting has left residents of Granton and the wider Edinburgh area shaken. Community members have laid floral tributes near the Anchor Inn, and a makeshift memorial has been established in memory of Marc Webley.
Local councillor Eleanor Bird spoke out about the impact of the tragedy:
“This level of violence is extremely rare in our city, and I know many people are feeling shocked and frightened. My thoughts are with Marc’s loved ones, and I hope they find some comfort in the outpouring of community support.”
Concerns About Gun Violence in Scotland
Gun crime in Scotland remains rare compared to other parts of the UK, but incidents like this reignite public debate about the accessibility of firearms and gang-related violence.
According to Police Scotland’s most recent statistics, firearm offenses have been declining overall. However, rare but high-profile cases like this one draw attention to the underground trade in illegal weapons.
Who Was Marc Webley?
Remembering the Victim
While not much has been publicly shared about Marc Webley’s personal life, those who knew him describe him as someone who was trying to turn his life around. Friends told local media that he had struggled in the past but had recently been focused on improving his situation.
“He was trying to be a better person,” one friend said. “This should never have happened.”
His family has asked for privacy during this time and has not yet released a formal statement.
Past Involvement With Law Enforcement?
Though unconfirmed, some sources have suggested that Webley may have had previous interactions with law enforcement. However, police have made no statement regarding his background, instead focusing their attention on solving the crime and ensuring justice is served.
Public Cooperation Encouraged
How You Can Help
Detective Superintendent Graham Grant and his team are calling for continued public assistance. Anyone who may have seen or heard anything unusual on the night of December 31, or who has access to CCTV or dashcam footage, is encouraged to come forward.
Information can be provided by calling Police Scotland on 101, quoting incident number 4314 of December 31. Alternatively, anonymous tips can be shared via Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
Community Safety Remains a Priority
Police Scotland has reiterated that incidents like this are not common and that Edinburgh remains a safe city. Increased patrols have been promised in the area to reassure residents and ensure continued safety as the investigation unfolds.
What Comes Next?
The Legal Process Ahead
Now that arrests have been made, the suspects are expected to be formally interviewed and potentially charged. Prosecutors will assess the evidence gathered by detectives and determine whether there is sufficient cause to proceed with criminal charges.
If charges are filed, the case will move into Scotland’s judicial system, beginning with an initial court appearance. Further proceedings, including any potential trial, could take several months to unfold.
Will There Be Justice for Marc Webley?
The focus now turns to ensuring justice is done for Marc Webley and his loved ones. Investigators are working around the clock to secure all available evidence, from witness statements to forensic reports.
Detective Superintendent Grant reaffirmed this commitment in a public statement:
“We understand how deeply this incident has affected the community. Our priority is to ensure that those responsible for this appalling act are held accountable.”
The Bigger Picture: Violence and Community Healing
How Communities Heal From Tragedy
In the wake of such violence, communities are often left grappling with fear, sorrow, and questions about how to move forward. Local leaders and community organizations are encouraging residents to support one another and to take part in public vigils or neighborhood initiatives aimed at healing.
Councillor Bird emphasized the importance of resilience:
“We will not let violence define our community. Together, we will heal, and we will stand against this kind of senseless loss.”
Spotlight on Firearm Access in the UK
This incident has also prompted calls for renewed efforts to combat illegal gun trafficking in the UK. While legal firearm ownership is strictly regulated in Scotland, the black market remains a persistent issue.
Advocates are calling on both national and local government leaders to bolster resources for gun crime prevention and intervention programs.
Conclusion
As the investigation into the Hogmanay shooting continues, one thing remains clear: the community of Granton, and indeed all of Edinburgh, is mourning the loss of Marc Webley while hoping for answers and accountability.
Police Scotland remains actively engaged in solving the case and ensuring public safety. With two suspects in custody and continued cooperation from the public, authorities hope they are on the path to justice—not just for Marc Webley, but for a community shaken by a tragic start to the new year.
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