POLICE have launched an investigation after a hearse had its windows smashed while carrying a coffin to a funeral in Edinburgh.
The Edinburgh-based Porteous Family Funeral Directors said the incident took place around 2.30pm on March 13 on Longstone Road in the capital city.
The funeral directors said the act of vandalism was an “appalling sign of disrespect towards the deceased and their grieving family” and have urged witnesses to come forward.
The hearse was carrying a coffin to a service at Warriston Crematorium when stones were thrown at the vehicle.
The funeral directors posted a picture of the hearse after the incident which showed the back window of the grey vehicle badly smashed with a hole left in the glass.
In a statement posted on social media by Porteous Family Funeral Directors, the firm said the incident put their team at serious risk of injury.
It read: “On our way to a funeral last week, our funeral colleagues experienced a shocking act of vandalism.
“Our hearse, which was carrying a coffin to Warriston Crematorium for a service, had its back window completely smashed with stones launched from an unknown location on Longstone Road.
“This deliberate damage was not just an attack on a vehicle which could have caused our funeral team risk of serious injury, but more importantly, is an appalling sign of disrespect towards the deceased and their grieving family.
“Funerals are the very last opportunity for family and friends to remember and celebrate the lives of their loved ones and such actions undermine the dignity and respect that should be given to someone who has died and those in our communities who are mourning.”
The statement added the funeral firm condemned the “disgraceful behaviour” and that their team were simply trying to carry out their duties.
It read: “Sadly, however, it is very much a modern reflection of the lack of compassion and understanding we experience regularly.
“This can be in the form of verbal aggression, gestures and overall frustration from other drivers, while simply trying to carry out our duties as funeral directors.
“We condemn this disgraceful behaviour, and this matter has been passed to Police Scotland for investigation.
“In the meantime, if you witnessed this act, which took place on March 13 at approximately 2.30pm on Longstone Road, or were passing in a car that might have dashcam footage, please contact us as a matter of urgency.”
A Police Scotland spokesperson said: “Around 2.50pm on Thursday, March 13, 2025, officers were made aware of damage caused to a vehicle on Longstone Road, Edinburgh.
“Enquiries are ongoing.”
