A woman has died following a four-car crash on the A8 Glasgow Road near Newbridge, close to Edinburgh Airport. Linda Patterson, 58, was pronounced dead at the scene.
Four other individuals were taken to a local hospital for treatment. Police described the incident as a suspected hit-and-run and stated they were searching for three people who had allegedly left the scene of the collision, which occurred at approximately 9:25 a.m. on Monday.
Ms. Patterson's family issued a statement describing her as a "beloved daughter, sister, aunt and friend who brought so much love and joy to those who knew her." They added that she "had an amazing ability to always look on the positive side of life and was a great support and comfort to those she loved," and that "Linda was a beautiful soul whose warmth and cheery sense of humour left their mark on everyone she knew."
Authorities later charged a 32-year-old man and two women, aged 19 and 23, in connection with the crash. They were scheduled to appear at Edinburgh Sheriff Court on Wednesday.
Search efforts on Monday involved sniffer dogs and helicopters. The A8 was closed as the investigation proceeded and was reopened later that evening at 7 p.m.
Sergeant Mike Thomson stated, "Our thoughts remain with Linda's family and friends at this devastating time." He added that the investigation is ongoing, but police are not seeking anyone else in connection with the incident. He appealed for public assistance, urging anyone with information or dashcam footage to contact officers.
Friends and family also shared tributes online. Ms. Patterson's business partner, Arthur Alexander, wrote of her "tragic passing" and noted that she had been his best friend for over 40 years. Her cousin, Pat Paterson, described her as a "beautiful cousin" who was "taken too soon."