Murder inquiry launched following death of John Cairns in Shotts, Lanarkshire

A murder inquiry has been launched following the death of a man in Lanarkshire.

Around 8.20am on Thursday, 9 May, 2024, officers were called to a report of a man being found seriously injured at a property in Shiel Gardens, Shotts.

Emergency services attended and 24-year-old John Cairns was pronounced dead at the scene.

His family have been informed and are being supported by specialist officers.

Following a post mortem examination, the death is being treated as murder.

An extensive investigation is under way to establish the full circumstances of what happened.

Detective Inspector Hazel Reid, from Police Scotland's Major Investigation Team, said: "Our thoughts are with the man's family and friends at this very difficult time.

"We have a dedicated team of officers working on this investigation and extensive enquiries are ongoing at this time.

"Officers are gathering CCTV footage from the surrounding area and door to door inquiries are also being carried out.

"I am keen to speak to anyone with any private CCTV, dashcam, doorbell or any other footage that they think would assist the enquiry.

"We will have a continued police presence in the area and anyone with any concerns can approach these officers.

"It is vital that we find out more about what has happened as soon as possible, and I would like to reassure the community that officers are working to trace whoever is responsible.

"I am appealing to the community to get in touch with us with any information they have, no matter how insignificant it might seem, please pass it on to officers."

Anyone with information is asked to contact 101 quoting reference number 0688 of 9 May, 2024. Information can be shared anonymously with the charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.”