THE family of a young man found dead in a harbour 21 years ago has made a fresh appeal for information to end their “nightmare” on the anniversary of his death.
Kevin Mcleod, 24, was found in Wick harbour in Caithness in February 1997 after a night out with friends.
Police said at the time his death was accidental, but his family believed he was murdered and consistently criticised the force for its handling of the case.
Last year, Police Scotland apologised to the Mcleod family over the original investigation and vowed to investigate any new evidence.
Marking the 21st anniversary of his death, the Mcleods urged anyone in the local community with information to come forward.
A family statement said: “Kevin’s horrific and untimely death has torn our family apart.
“We firmly believe that there are people within Wick and the wider community who perhaps witnessed, know what happened, or know who was involved in Kevin’s death.
“At the time, perhaps due to a sense of loyalty, friendship, or fear, some people may not have come forward.
“We would urge and beg anyone who has any information, regardless how insignificant it may appear, to please search your heart and conscience.
“Please now do the right thing and contact Police Scotland, who are currently undertaking an investigation, to at last end our nightmare in the hope that justice will prevail and that our beautiful son Kevin can finally rest in peace.”
Officers are assessing new information in the case.
Detective Superintendent James Smith said: “Kevin’s family have been left with a 21-year search for answers and I have nothing but the highest admiration for the strength they continue to show.”
Why are you making commenting on The National only available to subscribers?
We know there are thousands of National readers who want to debate, argue and go back and forth in the comments section of our stories. We’ve got the most informed readers in Scotland, asking each other the big questions about the future of our country.
Unfortunately, though, these important debates are being spoiled by a vocal minority of trolls who aren’t really interested in the issues, try to derail the conversations, register under fake names, and post vile abuse.
So that’s why we’ve decided to make the ability to comment only available to our paying subscribers. That way, all the trolls who post abuse on our website will have to pay if they want to join the debate – and risk a permanent ban from the account that they subscribe with.
The conversation will go back to what it should be about – people who care passionately about the issues, but disagree constructively on what we should do about them. Let’s get that debate started!
Callum Baird, Editor of The National
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules here