Human remains found in burnt-out van on remote Scots country road

Human remains have been found in a burnt-out van on a remote Scots country road.

The grim discovery was made after emergency crews were called to a report of a vehicle on fire in a layby on a single-track road between Priestland and Darvel in the Galston Moor area of Ayrshire at 12.05pm on Monday. This area is known locally as Bonk Belt or Mast Walk.

Police say formal identification is still to take place. The death is currently being treated as unexplained and inquiries are at an early stage to establish the full circumstances.

Detectives say the area is a popular route with hikers and dog walkers. The force has appealed for anybody in the area at the time of the incident to come forward.

Detective Inspector Craig Gilmour said: “At this stage of our investigation, it is unclear why the van was parked in this layby or how it came to be on fire. It is vital anyone with information comes forward.

"The area is very picturesque and popular with walkers and dog walkers, and it's thought a number of vehicles will have passed by the scene at the time.

“We are appealing for anyone who was in the area around midday on Monday and may have seen a white van parked in a layby, or a van on fire, to please get in touch. I would also ask if you heard any loud noises, or any motorists with dashcam footage which could be of significance, to please get in touch."

Anyone with information can contact Police Scotland on 101, quoting incident number 1615 of Monday, 24 June, 2024.

Don't miss the latest news from around Scotland and beyond - Sign up to our daily newsletter here.