The British Transport Police has confirmed that Brian Patterson has been jailed for four years after pleading guilty to racially aggravated Assault and causing Danger to Life with an Axe.

The victim was struck by an axe and suffered a bump to the side of the head and cuts on his neck.

On the 5th September 2025, Brian Patterson began to follow his victim on the Edinburgh Waverley station overbridge.

Patterson then began to racially abuse his victim and made sexual comments towards the victim’s friend.

The victim then confronted Patterson, and as he left, he was struck by the axe.

An urgent investigation was launched, and Patterson was arrested on the 1st October 2025.

“I’m extremely pleased to see Patterson jailed for his vile and premeditated attack. Patterson’s brazen and horrific actions could have resulted in a man losing his life, and it is thanks only to luck that the consequences of the attack were not more severe.

“When under caution and asking about the state of his victim, it quickly became clear that he really only cared about himself and showed utter indignation. I hope that regardless of how crass and heartless Patterson has shown to be, this can bring the victim some comfort and closure.

“We take every report of violence on the railway network extremely seriously, and will not tolerate offences such as those carried out by Patterson. If you are the victim of or witness to an assault or violent behaviour, report it to us by texting 61016 or call 0800 40 50 40. In an emergency, dial 999.”

Detective Constable Donna Davanna