Murder inquiry launch after man found dead in Hamilton

A murder inquiry has been launched in Hamilton after a man was found dead on Friday.

Detectives say James Murray has been the victim of a very prolonged and vicious attack at a house in Holyrood Street.

They are appealing to anyone who has seen the 24 year-old since the beginning of January and say extra patrols will be in the area to reassure the public.

Relatives are aware and a report will be sent to the Procurator Fiscal.

Detective Chief Inspector Raymond Brown at the Major Investigation Team (East) said:

“Mr Murray has been the victim of a very prolonged and vicious attack and as such it is vital that we trace the person or persons responsible for his death.

“My officers are currently carrying out further forensic examinations as well as viewing CCTV and speaking to local people in the community in an attempt to progress our inquiry.

“As part of our investigation we would like to speak to anyone who has been in the company of Mr Murray since the beginning of January and in particular anyone who has seen him from 19 January until he was discovered on Friday 26 January. It is only by speaking to those in his company, we can begin to piece together his movements in the lead up to his untimely death.”

Inspector Derek Hamilton added:

"There will be additional officers patrolling the local area and this will continue into the coming days. If anyone has any information or concerns I would encourage them to engage with these officers".

Anyone with information should contact the Major Investigation Team at Coatbridge Police Office via telephone number 101 quoting incident number 3276 of 26 January 2018. Alternatively calls can be made via Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 where anonymity can be maintained