Murder probe launched after human remains found at park

Police have launched a murder investigation following the death of a 31-year-old man whose remains were found next to a children’s playground in a Glasgow park.

William Leiper’s body was found in Househill Park, in the Pollok area of the city, at 7.35am on Wednesday, August 4.

Officers say they are following a positive line of enquiry and high visibility patrols are continuing in the area as police work on the investigation.

Detectives launched an investigation last week after discovering what was believed to be human remains next to the scene of a fire in Househill Park.

The remains were later identified as local man Leiper.

Detective Superintendent Andrew Patrick, of Police Scotland’s Major Investigation Team, said: “We are working to establish the full circumstances of what happened and our thoughts are very much with William’s family a week after he was found. This is a very difficult time for them and I want to reassure them, and the wider community, that we are doing all we can to find answers.

“Our enquiries so far indicate that this may have been a targeted attack and officers are following a positive line of enquiry. However, I am continuing to urge anyone who may have seen anything in the park and nearby Hartstone Road to get in touch as the slightest bit of information could help with our enquiries.

“There would have been dog walkers, joggers, and cyclists in the park on the morning that William’s body was found and anyone who has not already spoken to officers is asked to do so. There are high visibility patrols in the area and you can approach an officer if you have information or concerns.

Likewise, we would like to speak to anyone who saw anything suspicious in the wider Househill park area, including Hartstone Road, to also get in touch.”

Anyone with information should call officers on 101, quoting incident 0562 of Wednesday, 4 August, 2021.”

Police have also set up a website that gives members of the public access to a form to send information directly to the Major Investigation Team.

People can select to remain anonymous when submitting information. The portal can be accessed via this link: https://mipp.police.uk/operation/SCOT21S21-PO1