Two found guilty of murdering man in Kilwinning home

Two men have been found guilty of murdering a man in his Kilwinning home.

Emergency services were called to Pollock Crescent at around 1.55pm on October 18, 2024 after they received reports of an injured man.

John Taylor, 44, was pronounced dead at the scene.

Kieran Lindsay and Marshall Strachan, both aged 21 were found guilty of murder during a trial at the High Court of Glasgow .

Prosecutors argued that the pair left for Glasgow and got rid of the knife used in the murder.

Lindsay also showered, changed and burned the clothes worn during the killing.

John Taylor died in Kilwinning Police Scotland

A third man, Kiey O’Connor, 28, pleaded guilty to drug offences and attempting to defeat the ends of justice in relation to the incident.

Prosecutors stated that, knowing his car was involved, he offered to sell the vehicle to a man via Facebook Messenger for £40.

All three are due to be sentenced on August 10.

Detective Superintendent Graham McCreadie said: “This was a brutal, pre-meditated and targeted murder. Lindsay and Strachan now rightly face the consequences of their actions.

“Our thoughts remain with the John Taylor’s family and friends at this difficult time. Nothing will ever make up for their loss, but I hope they can find some comfort in seeing justice being done.

“This investigation involved a number of specialisms, including officers from the Major Investigation Team and local division, which resulted in prolonged police activity in the Kilwinning area. I want to thank residents for their patience and support throughout our enquiries

“We care deeply about violence and how it affects the communities we serve. Police Scotland remains committed to addressing the harmful effects of violent crime and supporting victims.”