A murder victim was on the phone to his dad when he was randomly attacked in the shadow of Edinburgh Castle.
was walking in the city’s Johnston Terrace talking to his father Iain when he was stabbed to death by a stranger.
It’s thought scissors were used on the horror attack.
The 28-year-old university graduate was declared dead at the scene, despite members of the public and emergency services rushing to his aid.
Paul’s parents, Margaret and Iain, who the victim lived with in a quiet suburban home in Balerno, just outside Edinburgh, were too upset to speak last night.
But a source said: “The victim was chatting on the phone to his dad when he was attacked.
“The weapon is believed to have been a pair of scissors.
“It’s horrific for the family that this innocent man was targeted and even more tragic his dad heard it all.”
Another police source said: “Paul was from a small, loving family who were very close. It’s absolutely tragic.
“He was a quiet guy with his whole life ahead of him. He was not known to police at all.
“It’s such a shame. I feel for his parents who will have to endure this pain forever.”
Police were called to tourist hotspot Johnston Terrace at about 1.50pm on Thursday following reports of a disturbance.
A man aged 40 was detained at the scene and has been charged with Paul’s murder.
Friends and members of the public shocked by the incident took to social media.
Sharon Farquhar wrote: “So sad. Rest in peace, Paul. You’ve got your angel wings far to soon.” Mike Homewood added: “A tragic senseless loss of life. RIP wee man.”
Detective Inspector Bob Campbell, from Edinburgh’s Criminal Investigations Department, said: “Our thoughts are with the family and friends of Mr Smith and we have specialist officers providing them with support at this time.
“We are satisfied that this was an isolated incident and we are not looking for anyone else in connection.
“A 40-year-old man has been held in police custody to appear before Edinburgh Sheriff Court on Monday.”
Chief Inspector David Robertson, Area Commander for the City Centre said: “We understand the shock and distress this type of incident can cause to the local community and officers will continue to provide a
high-visibility presence in the area in the coming days to engage with the public and provide necessary support.
“I would like to thank those members of the public who assisted the emergency services at the scene, and the wider community for their cooperation and assistance whilst our inquiries are ongoing.”
