Police believe Mary Logie murdered shortly after final sighting

Published 15th Jan 2016

Detectives investigating the murder of a grandmother beaten to death with a rolling pin in her own home believe they have narrowed down the time of her murder.

Mary Logie, 82, was found dead in the living room of her flat in the Green Gates area of Leven, Fife, at about 8pm on Tuesday January 5.

She had suffered serious head injuries in what officers have described as a ''brutal'' and ''horrific'' crime.

Mrs Logie was last seen by a neighbour at about 8am on January 5 and Police Scotland believe she was killed just a short time later.

Detective Chief Inspector Keith Hardie said: "As a result of this thorough inquiry, I now strongly believe that the murder was committed some time on the morning of Tuesday January 5.

"She was last seen alive at 8am and so we are now focusing on the remainder of the morning.

"A great deal of activity has been taking place in and around Green Gates and the ongoing assistance from the local community has been tremendous and vital in helping us develop our enquiries.''

Officers said they have received a number of calls and are following various lines of inquiry.

Mr Hardie added: "I understand the concerns expressed by some local people and the media when they have asked for more explanation that we've been unable to give.

"Officers have spoken with various people in connection with this ongoing effort and we're not at a stage where we can release much detail about the actions being carried out.

"We must always protect the integrity of the investigation and there is information which has to be kept within the inquiry team.

"I want to give my personal assurance to the community that our investigation is thorough and officers are doing a tremendous amount of work to ensure Mary's killer is brought to justice.''

The small community of Leven, where Mrs Logie spent her entire life, has been left stunned by the death.

Mrs Logie, who had failed to visit a friend in hospital as planned, was described as a beloved mother, grandmother and friend by her family, who said she will be "sadly missed''.

Police are continuing to carry out extra patrols in the area to reassure the public.

Chief Inspector Adrian Annandale said: "I urge anyone who has any information in relation to this murder to contact police on 101 or anonymously through the charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.''