Murder inquiry launched after man's body found in house fire in Renton

A murder probe has been launched following the discovery of a man’s body in a flat fire in West Dunbartonshire.

Emergency crews were called to reports of a blaze at a property in Tontine Park, Renton, at around 7.25am on March 25.

Fire crews extinguished the blaze, and the body of a fatally injured man was found inside the bedroom of the flat.

Police Scotland said that the man’s family has been informed, and a murder investigation has been launched following a port-mortem examination on Sunday.

The man was last seen alive around 10.45am on Friday, March 24 by a friend at the flat.

His body was discovered the following morning and officers are keen to hear from anyone who may have seen, or spoke to him between these hours.

Experienced detectives from the force’s Major Investigation Team are taking on the inquiry.

Detective Chief Inspector Christopher Thompson said officers were carrying out “extensive inquires” to piece together the circumstances of the death.

He continued: “We are also working to establish a motive for this crime and are in the process of piecing together the deceased’s last known movements to find out as much detail as possible on the circumstances surrounding this death.

“I would urge anyone with information on this murder to contact us as soon as possible. Any witnesses, or anyone who holds any information, no matter how insignificant it may seem, should get in touch with us.

“I’m aware the local community will be concerned by this incident and I would like to stress that everything is being done to catch whoever is responsible.

“Additional police patrols are in the area and members of the public are encouraged to speak to a police officer if they have any concerns.”

Anyone with information is asked to call Police Scotland via 101, quoting incident number 0899 of March 25, 2023.

Alternatively, call Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 where information can be given anonymously.