Police issue fresh appeal in Brian McKandie murder case following anonymous letter
They received an anonymous letter with information about the murder
Detectives investigating the murder of Brian McKandie in Rothienorman have appealed for a man to come forward, after revealing details of an anonymous letter.
They want to speak to a lone man who was seen walking near to the pensioner's address around the time and date of his death.
Mr McKandie was beaten to death at his home at 4 Fairview Cottages, Badenscoth, on Friday March 11 or Saturday 12, 2016.
He was found dead there on the Saturday. The man police want to identify is described as around 6ft tall, of an average or medium sized build and was wearing dark clothing and possibly a hat.
He was walking towards the nearby village of Rothienorman shortly before 1am on Saturday. Detective Chief Inspector Iain Smith said: "At that time of day in that area, where there is no footpath or street lighting, it would be unusual to see someone in the roadway.
"If that person was you or you know who it was, we would like to hear from you."
DCI Smith is also asking for assistance to identify the author of a letter received at a police office in Aberdeenshire shortly after the murder.
He said: "In late March an anonymous letter was received which provided some information regarding the death of Mr McKandie. I would like to appeal to that person to come forward and identify themselves as we believe they may hold information which will assist us with the investigation into his death."
DCI Smith also continues to appeal for assistance to trace a vehicle and two people who were seen in the area of Mr McKandie's home around the date of his death.
He said: "I would like to thank the public for the assistance they have provided with the investigation so far. Despite speaking to a large number of people we are still looking to identify the two men and burgundy or maroon estate car that were seen at Mr McKandie's address between 1.30pm and 2pm on Friday March 11. The two men are described as -
- Older male, possibly 40-50 years old, heavy build with dark hair 2. Younger male, possibly 20-30 years old, thin build, blonde hair, possibly collar length
He added: "These men and the vehicle may have been at the address for perfectly legitimate reasons.
Mr McKandie was well known throughout the wider community and a large number of people visited him over many years in relation to his business."
If you have information which you think could help, Police Scotland can be contacted on 101.
Crimestoppers has offered a £10,000 reward for information that leads to an arrest and conviction and can be contacted on 0800 555111.