Bomb disposal experts called after unexplained death in Shortlees

Emergency services and bomb disposal teams were called to the Shortlees area of Kilmarnock following the death of a man yesterday afternoon.

Officers were called to Craigie Court around 2.25pm and say the man’s death is being treated as unexplained, but not suspicious.

A search of the property revealed a suspicious item and the EOD (Explosive Ordnance Disposal) were called to investigate.

Around 35 houses from surrounding streets were evacuated to a nearby rest centre.

The item was then deemed safe and residents were allowed to return home around 3.45am this morning. (Thursday 23rd December)

A Police Scotland spokesperson said: “Officers were called to Craigie Court, Kilmarnock at around 2.25pm on Wednesday, 22 December, 2021 following the sudden death of a man. The death is being treated as unexplained and there are not thought to be any suspicious circumstances.

“Following enquiries, a suspicious item was discovered within the property and the EOD was contacted. As a precaution, a number of properties were evacuated and roads were closed in the vicinity."

Katie Kelly, Depute Chief Executive, East Ayrshire Council advised: "We were notified of an ongoing incident taking place near Craigie Court yesterday evening and our resilience teams responded to support the emergency services and to assist in ensuring the safety of residents in the area.

“A number of homes were evacuated as a precaution while investigations took place. We established a rest centre at Shortlees Community Centre where our Housing and Catering teams were on hand to look after residents and colleagues from Heath and Social Care attended to assist with the elderly and vulnerable.

"Residents were safely returned to their homes at approximately 3:45 am, however, police investigations are continuing.

“Our thoughts are with the people directly affected by this incident, and we thank all those involved for their swift and prompt response in ensuring the safety of the residents in the area.”

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