Police in Edinburgh have launched an urgent and widespread search for 72-year-old Brian Johnstone, who vanished from his home in South Gyle on Sunday morning. Officers describe his disappearance as “completely out of character,” sparking growing fears for his safety as temperatures in the capital plummet. A significant police presence has been deployed across the city, with a specific focus on the Cramond area.
Vanished Without a Trace in South Gyle
The alarm was raised after Brian Johnstone lost contact with his family around 10:45 am on Sunday, February 15, 2026. He has not been seen or heard from since, leaving his loved ones in a state of extreme distress.
This sudden silence is what troubles investigators the most. Inspector Graham Belfall of Police Scotland emphasised that it is highly unusual for Brian to go off the grid like this.
“It is completely out of character for Brian to go missing. His family and police are becoming increasingly concerned for his safety and wellbeing.” — Inspector Graham Belfall
Police units are currently scouring his home neighbourhood of South Gyle. They are conducting door-to-door enquiries and reviewing local CCTV footage to piece together his last known movements.
Description and Key Details for the Public
Officers have released a detailed description of Brian to help the public identify him immediately.
- Name: Brian Johnstone
- Age: 72
- Height: Around 6ft (1.83m)
- Build: White male, bald
- Last Known Clothing: A wooly hat and a navy jacke
The weather in Edinburgh has taken a bitter turn this week, with forecasts predicting near-freezing conditions and potential snowfall. This adds a critical layer of urgency to the search, as Brian may be exposed to the harsh elements without adequate protection.
If you are out walking your dog or commuting in the South Gyle or Cramond areas, please keep a sharp lookout for anyone matching this description who appears confused or in need of help.
Focus Shifts to Cramond Coastline
The investigation has rapidly expanded beyond South Gyle. Intelligence suggests that Brian is known to visit the Cramond area, a popular coastal village on the outskirts of Edinburgh.
Search teams are combing the promenade, the causeway leading to Cramond Island, and the surrounding woodland trails. This area is a common spot for walkers, but its proximity to the water and dense foreshore vegetation makes the search more complex.
Residents in Cramond and visitors to the waterfront are urged to check their dashcam footage if they were in the area on Sunday afternoon or Monday morning. Even a small detail could be the key to bringing Brian home safely.
How You Can Help Right Now
Police Scotland is appealing to the public for immediate assistance. Time is of the essence in missing person cases, especially involving vulnerable pensioners in winter conditions.
If you have seen Brian Johnstone since Sunday morning, or if you have any information that could assist the inquiry, do not hesitate.
Please contact Police Scotland immediately by calling 101.
When calling, quote the specific reference number to ensure your information reaches the correct team instantly: Incident number 1413 of 15 February.
Officers are keen to trace him as soon as possible to ensure he is safe and reunited with his worried family.
The disappearance of Brian Johnstone has shaken the local community, with neighbours and friends hoping for positive news. The freezing weather conditions make every passing hour critical. We urge everyone in Edinburgh to share this appeal and remain vigilant. Let’s help get Brian back to his family where he belongs.
If you are on social media, please share this story using the hashtag #FindBrianJohnstone to spread the word to your friends and followers in the Edinburgh area.
