Footballer critical in hospital after being hit by pick-up truck

A footballer is in “critical but stable condition” after being hit by a pick-up truck in Dumfries and Galloway.

Dean Watson was walking on the B7076 near to the village of Ecclefechan at around 1.30am when he was struck by a black Mitsubishi L200.

Emergency services administered treatment at the scene before rushing him to Dumfries and Galloway Royal Infirmary.

The 24-year old was then transferred to Glasgow’s Queen Elizabeth University Hospital.

Medical staff described Watson’s condition as “critical but stable”, Police Scotland said.

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Dean Watson was hit by the truck near the village of Ecclefechan. Google Maps

Sergeant Colin Ramage said: “A man has been left seriously injured following this collision and enquiries are ongoing to establish the full circumstances of what happened.

“We are appealing for anyone who was on the B7076 near to Ecclefechan in the early hours of this morning and may have noticed the vehicle involved, or anything else of relevance, to please get in touch.

“We are particularly keen to hear from motorists with dash-cams who may have footage which could assist with our enquiries.

“Anyone with information is asked to contact Police Scotland on 101, quoting incident number 0290 of Sunday, October 22, 2023.”

South of Scotland Football League club Dalbeattie Star, where Watson is currently signed, said: “Everyone at Dalbeattie Star would like to pass our best wishes to current player, Dean Watson, who was involved in a serious traffic incident near Ecclefechan in the early hours of this morning.

“Keep fighting Deano.”