'Our hearts are shattered' Tributes flood in for Scots murder victim as probe continues

Tributes have flooded in for a young Scots murder victim as police continue to investigate his death.

Tragic John Cairns died after sustaining serious injuries at a property in Shotts, Lanarkshire on May 9

Hero medics fought to save the 24-year-old but sadly he was pronounced dead at the scene. His devastated family have been informed and is being supported by specialist cops.

Heartbroken friends and family have since taken to social media to pay tribute following the tragic incident, report Glasgow Live.

One person wrote: "My nephew's life has been taken away from him in the cruellest way. Our hearts are shattered buddy."

A second said: "Rest easy wee man. Your life was never easy from a young age and my heart breaks for you. You did not deserve this. So young with your full life still in front of you. I'll never understand why. Your dogs are in safe hands wee pal."

Another added: "I can’t even put into words the shock at this devastating news. My heart goes out to his family, I just can’t believe the wee boy I watched growing up went through such a horrendous tragedy."

A fourth said: "I am broken. Another one of my best friends was taken away in the cruelest way imaginable. You rest easy wee man you deserve to be free of your demons. Brightest star in the sky. You have also taken a part of me with you."

A fifth wrote: "Absolutely heartbreaking! Was the nicest boy about."

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."

She continued: "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.”

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