Airdrie abduction inquiry becomes murder hunt after man dies in hospital
59-year old Colin MacDonald later died in hospital
Last updated 21st Aug 2019
A murder inquiry has been launched after a man who was abducted and left seriously injured on a road died in hospital.
Police were called to a report that a man had been forced into a dark-coloured car following a disturbance at a house in Frew Street, Airdrie, at around 12.30am on Monday.
59-year-old Colin MacDonald, who lived at the house, was found seriously injured a short time later on Rankin Crescent in Greengairs.
He was taken to Monklands Hospital in Airdrie, North Lanarkshire, where he died on Tuesday afternoon.
A post-mortem examination has been carried out and police are treating the death as murder.
A large amount of CCTV from the local area has been reviewed and detectives are following up all lines of inquiry from the footage and statements.
As part of their enquiry the investigation team is keen to hear from anyone who has information relating to a burnt out car that was found nearby.
Detective Chief Inspector Alan Sommerville, from the Major Investigation Team, said: "We believe this is a targeted attack. It would appear the 59-year-old man was the intended victim but the motive is still unknown.
"I would reiterate my appeal for anyone who was in the area of Frew Street Airdrie and Rankin Crescent Greengairs between midnight and 1.30am on Monday morning to speak to us if they have any information that may assist the inquiry. From our inquiries so far we know a small dark coloured car was seen at both locations.
"In addition to this a burnt out Vauxhall Astra was recovered by police on Forrest Road between Caldercruix and Kirk of Shotts around 4.30pm on Monday 19 August 2019.
"It's still to be established if the car is linked to this investigation but if anyone drove past the burnt out car in that area and saw anyone there or has any relevant information, please contact us.
"No matter how insignificant it may seem, let us decide if it is relevant or not.''
"Anyone with information should contact us on 101 quoting incident number 0074 of Monday 19 August 2019.
"Alternatively, Crimestoppers can be contacted on 0800 555 111, where anonymity can be maintained.''
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