Detectives investigating the death of Aberdeenshire pensioner Brian McKandie have released a description of a man spotted near the victim’s house on the day of his death.
Mr McKandie was attacked at his home at 4 Fairview Cottages, Badenscoth, on Friday March 11 or Saturday 12, 2016, and was found dead there on the Saturday.
The man is described as around 6ft tall, of an average or medium sized build and was wearing dark clothing and possibly a hat. He was walking towards the nearby village of Rothienorman shortly before 1am on Saturday.
Detective Chief Inspector Iain Smith said: “At that time of day in that area, where there is no footpath or street lighting, it would be unusual to see someone in the roadway.
“If that person was you or you know who it was, we would like to hear from you.”
DCI Smith also appealed for assistance to trace a vehicle and two people who were seen in the area of Mr McKandie’s home around the date of his death.
He said: “I would like to thank the public for the assistance they have provided with the investigation so far.
“Despite speaking to a large number of people we are still looking to identify the two men and burgundy or maroon estate car that were seen at Mr McKandie’s address between 1.30pm and 2pm on Friday March 11. The two men are described as –
1. Older male, possibly 40-50 years old, heavy build with dark hair
2. Younger male, possibly 20-30 years old, thin build, blonde hair, possibly collar length.”
He added: “These men and the vehicle may have been at the address for perfectly legitimate reasons. Mr McKandie was well known throughout the wider community and a large number of people visited him over many years in relation to his business.”
If you have information which you think could help, Police Scotland can be contacted on 101. Crimestoppers has offered a £10,000 reward for information that leads to an arrest and conviction and can be contacted on 0800 555111.