Increased police presence in Perthshire following dog walker shooting
65-year-old Brian Low was killed on a remote track in the Pitilie area
Last updated 28th Feb 2024
There is an unusually high police presence in Highland Perthshire this morning after a dog walker was gunned down in broad daylight.
65-year-old Brian Low, from Aberfeldy, was killed on a remote track in the Pitilie area around 8.30am on the 17th February.
Police initially treated the former groundskeeper's death as unexplained, but changed this to a murder inquiry following a post mortem.
What have Police said?
Police Scotland have reassured the public that there will be extra patrols in the area in the coming days as officers work out what happened to Mr Low.
Detective Chief Inspector Martin Macdougall, of the Major Investigation Team, said:
"Our inquiries so far have revealed that Brian was out walking his black Labrador along a remote track shortly before 8.30am when he was fatally shot.
"Although this is a remote location, we would be keen to hear from anyone who was in the area at the time.
"I am also appealing directly to the local community, who might have information that could help.
"Anyone with any information, no matter how small or insignificant they feel it may be, should come forward and speak to detectives.
"Please do not assume that the police already know the information you have."
Police Scotland said that a report will be submitted to the procurator fiscal.
Community 'shocked' by the news
We are hearing that the local community has been left on the edge following the shock news.
Perthshire North MSP John Swinney said: "This is a devastating and serious announcement and I express my sympathy to the family of Brian Low.
"This incident will shock the community in Aberfeldy and will understandably cause public concern.
"I have spoken with Police Scotland and sought reassurance that an appropriate police presence will be in place to ensure community safety.
"In these terrible circumstances I urge anyone with relevant information to contact Police Scotland."
Detectives have set up an online portal to encourage members of the public to submit information.
It can be accessed at: https://mipp.police.uk/operation/SCOT24S04-PO1
Police can also be contacted on 101, quoting incident number 0884 of February 17, or information can be given anonymously to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.