Police hunt for man after petrol attack at Hamilton cafe

Police are investigating a petrol attack on a café in Hamilton during Thursday's lunchtime rush.

A man burst into Rocco's Café on Brandon Street and threw the liquid on the floor before running off past officers.

It happened at 12.30pm and there's an appeal for drivers who were in the area and may have dash cam footage.

No one was injured but staff have been left shaken by what happened.

Detective Inspector Jamie Campbell, Hamilton CID, said:

“Thankfully no one was hurt by this attack but if he had managed to light the accelerant then this could have caused significant harm to the staff and damage to the building.

“Although no motive has been established for this attack, we believe that, for whatever reason, the café was the intended target.

“The suspect was around 6ft tall, of slim build, fair hair and was seen carrying a petrol can.

“We have been checking CCTV and speaking to those in the area at the time and would further appeal to any motorists with dash-cams who may have been in the area between 12.00 and 12.40. They may have captured footage that may assist officers with their enquiries.

“We’d also like to hear from anyone who may have seen the man either before or afterwards. It’s possible he had been hanging about the area prior to the attack on the café.

Any information can be passed to officers at Hamilton Police Station via 101. Please quote reference number 1700 of Thursday, 19 May, 2022 when calling.

Alternatively, details can be passed anonymously to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111

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