"A loving happy go lucky man" Police name two killed in Greendykes Road flat

Police have named the two men killed in a flat in Greendykes Road last week - Desmond Rowling's daughters say he was a "loving happy go lucky man" and Derek Johnston's family have described him as "A deeply loved son and brother."

Author: Lewis MichiePublished 7th Nov 2022
Last updated 7th Nov 2022

Police have named the two men who died in an Edinburgh flat last week.

The bodies of both were discovered within the property on Greendykes Road on Tuesday November 1st.

Officers say the two were 66-year-old Desmond Rowlings and 37-year-old Derek Johnston.

Families of both have issued photographs of Desmond and Derek.

The daughters of Desmond Rowlings described him as: “A loving, happy go lucky man who kept himself to himself.

“He will be forever missed and remembered with love. As a family we ask for respect and privacy whilst we come to terms during this extremely difficult time”

Derek Johnston’s mum and sister have also issued a photograph of Derek and have described him as: “A deeply loved son and brother, my handsome boy who had such a beautiful soul, our hearts will never mend, he will be forever missed and remembered with much love and affection. As a family we ask for respect and privacy during this extremely difficult time”

Detective Chief Inspector Susan Balfour of Police Scotland’s Major Investigation Team added: “Our thoughts are with the families and friends of both Desmond and Derek at this incredibly difficult time.

“Specialist officers are continuing to provide both families with support.”

Two men, aged 65 and 40, have been arrested and charged in connection with their deaths.

The 65-year-old appeared at Edinburgh Sheriff Court on Friday, 4 November while the 40-year-old is due to appear at the same court today (Monday, 7 November).

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