A 12-year-old boy sustained facial injuries, including stitches, a swollen jaw, and eye socket, following an alleged assault by a group of individuals. Connor McGowan reportedly intervened to protect his female friend from the gang when he was attacked. The incident, which occurred near Dundee’s High Street on Friday night, also resulted in cuts to his legs and head.

According to his mother, Lori Roache, Connor and his friends were heading home when they encountered a group of about 20 teens. The situation escalated as the group targeted Connor’s female friend, prompting him to intervene. The altercation quickly turned violent, with the group assaulting Connor and his friends, leaving them injured.

Lori described the attackers as behaving like a “pack of animals,” emphasizing the severity of the assault. She expressed relief that her son survived the ordeal but highlighted the potential fatal consequences of the attack. Despite Connor’s injuries, he was treated at Ninewells Hospital and later discharged, although he remains deeply affected by the incident.

Police Scotland has initiated an investigation into the assault, aiming to identify and apprehend those responsible. Authorities received a report of the incident involving the youths and are actively pursuing leads to locate the individuals involved. Lori emphasized the need for accountability, urging that the perpetrators be apprehended before causing further harm.

The family is now focused on Connor’s recovery, with plans for follow-up medical appointments to monitor his condition. Lori expressed her concern for her son’s safety and stressed the importance of ensuring his security in the future. She remains apprehensive about allowing him to venture out alone, emphasizing the need to prevent similar incidents from occurring again.