Police do not believe Ayrshire murder was random attack

STV

Officers investigating the death of Stuart Walker in Ayrshire over the weekend said they did not believe it was a random attack.

The body of the 28-year-old was found by two members of the public shortly before 5am on Saturday in Cumnock.

Police said he had been the victim of an "extremely violent" attack. Officers would not discuss specific injuries in case it was "prejudicial in the future" but reports have suggested Mr Walker was beaten and burned.

It is understood the former barman had been socialising with friends at a number of houses in the town. He was last seen by a family friend near the fire station in Glaisnock Street at around 2.30am on Saturday.

On Monday shocked residents came to the spot where Mr Walker's body was discovered on Caponacre Industrial Estate, near Cumnock Community College. They left floral tributes, cuddly toys and lit candles in tribute to him. Cards and messages called Mr Walker "one in a million" and said he would be "sorely missed".

One said: "You were such a wonderful guy Stuart. I'm so glad I knew you.".

A card attached to a daisy-shaped cuddly toy with a child's handwriting said: "My mummy told me the angels came and took you away. I will miss you lots and lots. Love you forever and ever".

Detectives said there was nothing to suggest Mr Walker had been the victim of a homophobic crime but that they were not ruling anything out as no clear motive had been established.

Strathclyde Police divisional commander John Thomson said: "Stuart was the subject of an extremely violent attack.

"I do not believe this was a random attack and I would like to reassure the public that I do not anticipate a recurrence of this attack.

"We have no distinct motive as yet but I remain optimistic we will bring the individual or individuals responsible for this crime to book sooner rather than later.

"There are a number of open lines of inquiry."

Hundreds of tributes were also left on Facebook pages set up to honour Mr Walker, who worked at the Royal Hotel in Cumnock.

A post from Karen Nicol on a page called RIP Stuart Walker, which almost 4,500 people joined, read: "Life is so unfair. A genuine guy who always had a smile, a wave or a big cheery hello for everyone. Cumnock an emptier place without you for lots of people."

Anne Dunnachie wrote: "Every once in a while we are lucky enough to have known someone like you Stuart. A very special person...the world lost a wonderful person yesterday."

A statement from the Royal Hotel said: "Stuart Walker, former employee, colleague and most of all friend. Our thoughts and prayers are with Stuart and his family at this sad and tragic time. His smile and charm will be remembered always."

IN DETAIL