The killer of a dog walker remains at large two months after the murder, with an MP seeking answers from Scotland’s top police officer over the shooting.
Brian Low, 65, was shot at around 8.30am on Saturday 17 February while walking his black Labrador on a remote track in the Pitilie area on the outskirts of Aberfeldy, Perthshire.
His dog was found safe and well by his side.
Mr Low’s death was initially treated as non-suspicious and medical-related until concerns were raised days later.
A two-doctor post-mortem eventually took place on Friday 23 February, which confirmed he had been shot.
A murder investigation was subsequently launched, with Mr Low’s family notified the following day.
In a news conference in February, a detective investigating the murder admitted that evidence may have been lost because of the delay.
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Perth and North Perthshire MP Pete Wishart has now written to Police Scotland Chief Constable Jo Farrell to seek clarity on the ongoing investigation, community safety concerns and the force’s initial response.
Mr Wishart told Sky News: “Two months on from the death of Brian Low, his family, as well as the local community, are still without answers.
“I know what a worrisome time this has been for everyone in the Aberfeldy area, which is why I have written to the chief constable to try to get answers.
“With that said, it is vital for the investigation to be conducted thoroughly, and I would encourage anyone who thinks they may have useful information to come forward as soon as possible.”
Mr Wishart has sought an explanation as to why it took “so long for the nature of [Mr Low’s] death to be determined” and why the community was not notified sooner.
The SNP MP has also asked whether officers are any closer to identifying a perpetrator, if there is a prime suspect, and if the murder weapon has been recovered.
Following concerns among local people, he has asked Ms Farrell to outline measures being taken to ensure community safety.
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Mr Wishart wrote: “As I am sure you will appreciate, this incident has rocked the close-knit community of Aberfeldy to its core.
“As such, it is important that they are provided with as much information as possible in order to provide reassurance during this unsettling time, and also to encourage those who may hold key information to come forward.”
The professional standards department of Police Scotland was informed of the change to a murder investigation, while watchdog the Police Investigations and Review Commissioner (PIRC) said it would conduct its own review.
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Police Scotland previously said officers believe the answer to cracking the case “lies within the local community”.
Sky News sent a copy of the letter to the force, asking for a comment.
The spokesperson responded: “While we have not yet received the letter, any correspondence received will be responded to.”
