Brian McKandie murder: brother in new plea over mechanic's death

Murder victim Brian McKandie. Picture: Contributed

Mr McKandie was found dead at his home near Rothienorman, Aberdeenshire, a month ago and detectives have yet to trace his killer.

Relatives gathered for his funeral at Auchterless Church by Badenscoth earlier on Wednesday.

His brother William said the family could not understand why anyone would have harmed the “private, gentle” man.

In a statement issued by police, he said: “It has been a month since Brian died and we would like to again appeal to anyone who may have information that could assist police to get in touch.

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“He was a genial man and was well liked in the local community. He had lived at his home in Badenscoth most of his life and was known for his passion, which was fixing cars. He helped a great deal of folk and his death has come as a shock to us all.

“Somebody somewhere must know what happened to Brian and we would ask them to look to their conscience and call the police. We have lost our brother and we just want to know what happened and why.”

Mr McKandie was found dead at Fairview Cottages on Saturday March 12. He had been attacked with a weapon.

Officers have previously appealed for information on a burgundy car and its occupants seen in the Rothienorman area the day before.

Detective Chief Inspector Iain Smith said: “Our thoughts are with the family today as they hold a service to mark Mr McKandie’s life.

“Mr McKandie worked as a mechanic from his home and knew a lot of people in the local community.

“I would directly appeal to any of his friends or associates who may have noticed something concerning Mr McKandie in the days leading up to his death to come forward.

“If there is anything at all, even if it seems insignificant, it could assist us so please get in touch and let us make that decision.”

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