Police launch murder probe into lecturer's death

The body of Roger Gray, 64, was discovered in the hallway of his property in the upmarket Merchiston area of Edinburgh on Saturday morning.

Officers were called to the house by the gas board, who had been alerted to the smell of gas coming from the building.

Lothian and Borders Police launched a murder inquiry today following the results of the post-mortem examination, which revealed extensive stabbing injuries.

Mr Gray was employed as a senior lecturer in mathematics and statistics by Heriot-Watt University.

He retired from full-time work around four years ago, but still taught part-time at the institution.

Detective Chief Inspector Gareth Blair said: "At this time we are devoting extensive resources towards tracking down his killer, and we are appealing for help from the public to help us in our inquiries.

"We are asking anyone who was in the area of Merchiston Crescent overnight from Friday night into Saturday morning, who saw or heard any suspicious activity in the area, to contact us if they have not already done so.

"In particular, we want to speak to anyone who may have heard a disturbance from within Mr Gray's flat around 10pm on Friday.

"We are also interested in speaking to any friends of Mr Gray who can help us build a fuller picture of his background".

Colleagues paid tribute to the lecturer following his death.

A statement from Heriot-Watt said: "He was a long-standing and much valued colleague who contributed greatly to the university, his school and his students.

"He will be greatly missed".

A confidential hotline to the police incident room has been set up for anyone who has any information.

They can call 0131 311 5480 or email [email protected]