Stewart (34) found murdered near Fintry

Dec 2 2011 by Johnathon Menzies, Stirling Observer Friday

A MURDER investigation was launched after a body, found in an isolated spot near Fintry at the weekend, was identified as Kirkintilloch man Stewart Barrett.

The 34-year-old was found lying on a forestry track close to Carron Valley reservoir by a dog walker, at about 11am on Sunday, November 27.

Detective Chief Inspector Willie Cravens, the officer leading the investigation for Central Scotland Police, said that a recent post mortem revealed that Mr Barrett died as a result of injuries sustained during a violent assault.

DCI Cravens explained: “The last confirmed sighting of Stewart was at 10.30pm on Saturday, November 26, at an address in Meiklehill Road, Kirkintilloch.

“We are working to establish his movements between the time he was last seen and the discovery of his body, at 11am on Sunday morning.

“He was found half-a-mile along a forestry track from the B818, at the north end of Carron Valley reservoir, near Fintry.

Tracksuit

“We are keen to hear from anybody who may have seen him throughout Saturday, either on his own or with other people. He was wearing blue tracksuit bottoms, white trainers and a dark-coloured top.”

The officer added that the local constabulary were hoping to speak to anyone who was near the reservoir between 10.30pm on Saturday and the fateful morning Mr Barrett was discovered.

“I would urge any member of the public who saw anyone in the area, or a vehicle, during this period to come forward,” he said.

Locally-based officers are liaising with Strathclyde Police and a number of inquiries, including door knocks in Mr Barrett’s east Dumbartonshire home town, are being conducted.

News of the death prompted internet users to post scores of tributes on Central Scotland Police’s official Facebook page.

The local constabulary can be contacted on 01786 456000, or anonymously via Crimestoppers on 0800 555111, with any information.