CCTV footage has revealed a disturbing incident of violence that took place at the Tower Bar in Craigshill, Livingston, on November 8, 2023. The video shows a group of men engaged in a game of pool when one man was brutally attacked with a pool cue, leaving both patrons and staff shaken.
The confrontation escalated quickly as a man wearing a green top stepped away from the pool table. Another man, dressed in red, swung a pool cue with force, striking the victim’s head. The impact caused the victim to collapse to the ground, while the assailant calmly discarded the weapon and stood over him, uttering words that remain inaudible in the footage. The attacker then exited the premises, leaving onlookers in shock.
Reports from the Daily Record indicate that graphic images circulating on social media show the victim with a bandaged head, severe facial bruising, and a deep cut to his eyelid. The current condition of the victim has not been disclosed.
Community Reaction and Management Response
Following the incident, the Tower Bar’s management has taken significant steps. The assailant has been banned from the establishment, and the pub’s owner, Frank McAlister, expressed deep concern over the violence. He stated, “This was an unfortunate incident involving two people who we know well and of whom neither have ever been in any trouble before.”
McAlister explained that the assault arose from a disagreement and occurred before staff could intervene. He emphasized the pub’s commitment to maintaining a safe environment, stating, “The Tower Bar is a fantastic community pub and we do not ever condone behaviour of this kind.” The management team is cooperating with police investigations, having provided the CCTV footage to assist with inquiries.
Police Investigation Underway
As investigations continue, Police Scotland has not yet commented on the incident. The pub’s management is hopeful that their cooperation will lead to swift action against the assailant.
The shocking nature of this attack has left a mark on the community, as many patrons and staff who witnessed the event are still processing the violent turn of events. With the Tower Bar being a local gathering place, the incident raises concerns about safety in social spaces.
As the investigation unfolds, the Tower Bar remains committed to ensuring the safety of its patrons and restoring a sense of normalcy to the community.
