Cumbernauld Taxi Driver Left Brain-Damaged After Violent Attack

A teenage thug has left a Cumbernauld taxi driver brain-damaged following a brutal murder attempt.

The 16-year-old assailant violently attacked David Walker, a 55-year-old taxi driver, after a dispute over the fare. The attack, which occurred on July 13, 2023, was so severe that medics initially feared Walker might not survive. Fortunately, he managed to leave the hospital three months later, though he remains deeply affected by the ordeal.

The teenager, now 17, was previously known to be involved in criminal activities, including two pending court dates at the time of the attack. His actions during the assault were shocking, and he has pleaded guilty to attempted murder in the High Court in Glasgow. The teenager, whose identity is protected due to his age, is now in custody and will be sentenced in the New Year.

Attack and Violent Confrontation

The incident began when David Walker, a driver for Cumbernauld-based Central Cars, picked up the teenager. After the teenager failed to pay the fare, he fled into a house on Johnston Avenue in Kilsyth. Walker followed the teenager to the house, which led to a violent confrontation.

Prosecutor Anna Chisholm revealed that the teenager was encouraged by other males in the house, who shouted at him to make a recording of the incident. The teenager then confronted Walker, yelling,

"I am taking your taxi for a drive. Do not f***ing grab me."

The situation escalated quickly, with the teenager repeatedly punching Walker, who tried to defend himself.

The violence intensified when the teenager knocked Walker to the ground, then proceeded to stamp on his head and kick him as Walker struggled to stand. CCTV footage of the attack, though partially obscured by trees, was played at the hearing. The assailant initially covered his eyes, unable to watch the footage of his brutal actions.

The Attack Escalates

As the assault continued, the teenager dragged Walker across the road while threatening to stab him. Walker attempted to escape by reaching for his taxi but was followed. On the ground, Walker was kicked several more times by the assailant.

At this point, several other males, who were present during the attack, warned the teenager that he had likely killed Walker. Remarkably, the teenager responded with indifference, stating, "Good." This chilling remark highlighted the callousness with which he approached the situation.

Emergency Response and Medical Condition

The taxi firm's controller, who had been listening to the events unfold over the radio, alerted authorities. A fellow driver arrived on the scene and found Walker unconscious. Emergency medical crews quickly arrived and transported Walker to the hospital. Initially, doctors were concerned that he might not survive due to the traumatic brain injury, broken nose, dislocated shoulder, and other severe injuries he sustained.

For the first 24 hours after the attack, doctors monitored his condition closely, fearing the worst. After several weeks of intensive treatment, Walker was able to leave the hospital on October 6, 2023, but he continues to require ongoing medical care. He now needs specialized treatment, including occupational therapy, physiotherapy, and psychological support.

Legal Proceedings and Sentencing

The teenager who assaulted Walker had already been subject to a compulsory supervision order and was facing legal action for other offenses. At the time of the attack, he was under a bail arrangement, but he has now been detained in custody. His case is still being processed, and he will be sentenced in early 2024.

In court, defense attorney John Scullion KC noted that the teenager had been under social work supervision. Lord Armstrong, presiding over the case, expressed concern over the seriousness of the charge, stating that he would call for a social work report to fully understand the circumstances surrounding the teenager’s actions.

Impact on the Victim

David Walker’s life has been profoundly affected by the attack. He has been unable to work since the incident and requires continued support to manage his physical and mental recovery. His injuries have left him with lasting effects, and it is unclear when or if he will be able to resume his career as a taxi driver.

The attack, which left Walker brain-damaged, serves as a reminder of the violent threats that taxi drivers face on the job. This incident, combined with the callousness displayed by the assailant, underscores the need for greater protections for workers in vulnerable positions.

Ongoing Investigations

The teenager’s actions have raised concerns about the effectiveness of the justice system in dealing with young offenders. Despite facing multiple legal challenges, the teenager’s violent behavior has left a lasting impact on both the victim and the community. Authorities are continuing to investigate the broader context of the teenager’s actions, and further reports are expected as the case progresses.

The sentence, which will be delivered in the New Year, will be closely watched as a test of the judicial response to youth violence and the protection of vulnerable individuals in society.