Donald McAvoy, half-brother of Hollywood actor James McAvoy, committed a violent prison attack by slashing a fellow inmate during visiting hours at HMP Edinburgh, also known as Saughton, on October 21, 2025. The James McAvoy prison attack left Colin Lindsay seriously injured, with the assault caught on CCTV inside the facility.
During the attack, which unfolded when inmates were returning to their wings after visits, McAvoy dragged a concealed blade across Lindsay’s face, causing severe and potentially life-threatening harm.
Details of the Assault and Court Proceedings
Courtroom evidence included CCTV footage showing staff rushing to restrain McAvoy in the visiting hall while nearby visitors, including young children, remained unaware of the violent incident. Judge Norman McFadyen reviewed this footage during the High Court session in Edinburgh, where McAvoy admitted guilt to assault involving a bladed weapon that caused serious injury and permanent disfigurement to Lindsay.
Prosecutor Alexandria Kirk outlined the situation clearly: at approximately 4 p.m., as prisoners ended their visits and began moving toward the exit, McAvoy launched the attack.
“When the visiting ended, the prisoners made their way towards the exit to return to their wing whilst their visitors remained seated,”
she said.
Following the slashing, other inmates assisted Lindsay while McAvoy retreated. Prison officers quickly intervened, restraining McAvoy, who reportedly told others,
“I done what I needed to do.”
McAvoy’s Past Crimes and Sentencing Background
Donald McAvoy was already serving a sentence of five years and ten months for various offences, including a violent road rage incident targeting a 57-year-old man. Though originally scheduled for release in March 2025, McAvoy received an additional 15-month sentence after admitting possession of razor blades and an unauthorized mobile SIM card at Glenochil Prison. These items were discovered hidden on a toilet door in his cell in September 2021.
Represented by solicitor Ian Sievwright, McAvoy appeared via video link at Falkirk Sheriff Court. Sievwright revealed McAvoy inherited a substantial legacy from his late father, James Sr., which could support him financially post-release.
“He’s been a prisoner for a long time, and he is determined for his daughter’s sake that when he leaves prison he will lead a pro-social lifestyle and provide for her and fully participate in raising her,”
Sievwright said.
Explanation and Defense Regarding Razor Blades
McAvoy only recently admitted possession of the blades after initially believing the seized item was a harmless hobby tool used for soap carving. His lawyer explained that the first opportunity to properly inspect the item came during the court trial, after which McAvoy changed his stance.
“He accepts it was in his cell, it didn’t belong to him, it was put in his cell by somebody else. There was no nefarious reason for him having it,”
Sievwright stated.
Despite this, the offense damaged McAvoy’s parole prospects, requiring him to complete his full sentence. Sheriff Wyllie Robertson emphasized the seriousness of these crimes at sentencing, declaring,
“These are serious offences. Their gravity has to be reflected.”
McAvoy’s Extensive Criminal History and Court Appearance
With over 40 prior convictions, including numerous violent offenses, McAvoy’s criminal record is extensive. During the recent hearing, held via video link, McAvoy observed proceedings while awaiting sentencing later in the year.
Ms. Kirk confirmed that McAvoy was restrained soon after the attack and that authorities have not determined a clear motive. Colin Lindsay required medical attention for his injuries before returning to jail. Defence counsel Kenneth Cloggie planned to address the court after background reports on McAvoy’s character had been reviewed.
Family Connections and Broader Implications
Donald McAvoy and James McAvoy share the same father but were raised separately and are reported never to have met. This incident highlights the stark contrast between the actor’s public success and his half-brother’s ongoing struggles within the criminal justice system.
The James McAvoy prison attack raises concerns about inmate safety and monitoring during visiting hours, especially with families and young children present. The outcome of the case and future sentencing will determine the extent of McAvoy’s continued incarceration, with potential effects on prison management policies.
