WATCH: Police Scotland's first ever public appeal for help to crack unexplained Wick death
Kevin Mcleod, 24, drowned in Wick Harbour 21 years ago today.
Last updated 6th Feb 2020
The family of Kevin Mcleod, whose body was recovered from Wick Harbour in 1997, have appealed for the local community’s help on the 21st anniversary of his unexplained death.
Above: MFR News reporter Bryan Rutherford anchors a 6pm special report from Wick Harbour.
"Kevin’s horrific and untimely death has torn our family apart. At the time - perhaps due to a sense of loyalty, friendship, or fear - some people may not have come forward" - MCLEOD FAMILY STATEMENT
Kevin was last seen in the early hours of the 8th of February 1997, as he enjoyed a night out with friends in the town.
His body was recovered from the sea the following day.
Marking the 21st anniversary of his death, his family joined Police Scotland in urging anyone in the local community who may have information to come forward.
In a statement, the family said: 'Kevin’s horrific and untimely death has torn our family apart.
'We firmly believe that there are people within Wick and the wider community who perhaps witnessed, know what happened, or know who was involved in Kevin’s death.
'At the time - perhaps due to a sense of loyalty, friendship, or fear - some people may not have come forward.
'We would urge and beg anyone who has any information, regardless how insignificant it may appear, to please search your heart and conscience.
'Please now do the right thing and contact Police Scotland, who are currently undertaking an investigation, to at last end our nightmare in the hope that justice will prevail and that our beautiful son Kevin can finally rest in peace.'
Major Crime detectives have been working with a new witness who came forward just three weeks ago, but back in 1997, Northern Constabulary failed to launch a potential murder inquiry, as instructed by the then Procurator Fiscal.
"We are currently gathering and assessing information that has been brought to our attention recently" - DETECTIVE SUPERINTENDENT JAMES SMITH
Detective Superintendent James Smith from Police Scotland Major Investigation Team, said: "Kevin’s family have been left with a 21-year search for answers and I have nothing but the highest admiration for the strength they continue to show.
"We are currently gathering and assessing information that has been brought to our attention recently. This a detailed and complex piece of work, to ensure all information is thoroughly explored.
"That work continues with experienced Detectives from Police Scotland’s Homicide Governance and Review Department currently carrying out enquiries in and around the Wick area.
"I want to reassure Kevin’s family and the communities of Wick, and the surrounding area that Police Scotland is fully committed to thoroughly investigating any new evidence which may come to light.
"I would urge anyone in both Wick and the wider area who may have any information they feel could help our investigations to please come forward."
WATCH THE FULL PUBLIC APPEAL MADE EARLIER TODAY...
Police advise that anyone with information should contact Police Scotland on 101 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.