Murder investigation launched after death of 24-year-old man in Shotts, North Lanarkshire

A murder investigation has been launched after a 24-year-old man was found dead within a property in North Lanarkshire.

Officers were called to an address on Shiel Gardens in Shotts on Thursday morning to reports of a man being found seriously injured.

Emergency services arrived but he was pronounced dead at the scene.

Police Scotland have named him as John Cairns.

Officers previously said his death was being treated as unexplained.

But following a post-mortem examination it is now being treated as murder.

An extensive investigation is under way to establish the full circumstances of what happened, Police Scotland said.

Detective inspector Hazel Reid, from the force’s Major Investigation Team, said: “Our thoughts are with the man’s family and friends at this very difficult time.

“We have a dedicated team of officers working on this investigation and extensive enquiries are ongoing at this time.

“Officers are gathering CCTV footage from the surrounding area and door-to-door inquiries are also being carried out.

“I am keen to speak to anyone with any private CCTV, dashcam, doorbell or any other footage that they think would assist the enquiry.

“We will have a continued police presence in the area and anyone with any concerns can approach these officers.

“It is vital that we find out more about what has happened as soon as possible, and I would like to reassure the community that officers are working to trace whoever is responsible.

“I am appealing to the community to get in touch with us with any information they have, no matter how insignificant it might seem, please pass it on to officers.”

Anyone with information is asked to contact 101 quoting reference number 0688 of May 9.

Information can also be shared anonymously with the charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.