Police returned to the spot where a woman was attacked just minutes from her home in Elgin exactly a week ago.
The woman was seriously injured in what detectives now believe was a “targeted” attack in a narrow lane beside Woodside Terrace.
Officers have not been able to speak to the victim due to the extent of her injuries, so returned to the scene today to quiz passers-by who may have been in the area at the time of last Thursday’s incident.
Detective Inspector Norman Stevenson, who is leading the investigation, said: “This has been an extremely complex case to deal with, especially as we have been unable to fully speak to the woman involved yet to establish what happened, because of the extent of her injuries.
“Whilst we kept an open mind from the outset, as a result of our inquires, I am now content to say that this is being treated as an assault.
“That being the case, this would have been targeted and pre-planned given the early hour and the fact no one else is usually out in that area at that time.
Police search lane in hunt for clues after woman found seriously injured near home
“I would like to reassure the public that there is no information available to us whatsoever to suggest that this was a random attack.”
Neighbours found the woman just metres from her home shortly after 5am.
At the time the woman was walking to East Road to catch a bus to take her to her work at Walker’s in Aberlour.
Locals who ran to her aid described her as “unrecognisable” due to the extent of her injuries.
Police are especially eager to here from anyone who captured dashcam footage on Newmill Road, Pansport Road or South Lesmurdie on that morning.
DI Stevenson added: “Someone, somewhere knows what happened that morning and I would urge them to look into their conscience and come forward with information.”
At the time of the attack the woman was wearing a light jacket, blue jeans, brown boots and was carrying a black handbag.
Anyone with information should contact police by phoning 101 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
