Murder probe launched after dog walker shot dead

Police have launched a murder investigation 10 days after a 65-year-old man was shot dead as he walked his dog near Aberfeldy.

Officers said Brian Low was shot in Pitilie on the outskirts of the Perthshire town at about 08:30 on Saturday 17 February.

Emergency services attended but Mr Low, from Aberfeldy, was pronounced dead at the scene.

Following a post mortem examination, Mr Low’s death is being treated as murder.

Det Ch Insp Martin Macdougall, of Police Scotland’s major investigation team, said the force was trying to get Mr Low’s family answers.

He said extensive inquiries were being carried out and detectives were trying to establish the full circumstances of the shooting.

He continued: “Our inquiries have so far have revealed that Brian was out walking his black Labrador along a remote track, shortly before 08:30 when he was fatally shot.

“Although this is a remote location, we would be keen to hear from anyone who was in the area at the time.”

Local Area Commander Greg Burns said: “I understand this is an extremely concerning incident for this small, rural community.

“I want to take this opportunity to reassure people that we are working round the clock to find out what happened to Brian.

“We will have additional high-visibility patrols in the area and you will see significant police activity over the coming days.

Detectives have set up an online portal where members of the public can submit information.

Perthshire North MSP John Swinney said: “This is a devastating announcement and I express my sympathy to the family of Brian Low.

“I have spoken with Police Scotland and have been assured there is a strong police presence locally to address public anxiety.

“I encourage anyone with information to contact the police.”