Police Treat Dunfermline Death As Murder

Officers say Duncan Banks was subjected to a violent attack at a flat in the Fife town

Police Scotland is investigating a murder in Dunfermline.

39 year old Duncan Banks was found dead within a flat on the town's Skye Road at around 5pm on Monday, September 28th.

An extensive investigation is now underway and is being led by detectives from Police Scotland's Major Investigation Team.  

Detective Chief Inspector Keith Hardie of the MIT, said: "Following the conclusion of a post mortem I can confirm that the death of Duncan Banks is being treated as murder.

"I ask anyone who was in the area of Skye Road between 11am on Sunday, September 27, and 5pm on Monday, September 28, and who noticed any unusual behaviour to come forward.

"Mr Banks was the victim of a violent assault and we are committed to tracing anyone who was involved in his death.

"Such acts of violence have no place in society and I would again urge anyone who has any relevant information to contact police immediately on 101. Alternatively, incan be passed anonymously through the charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111."

Mr Banks' family have issued a statement: "Duncan was a beloved son and a much-loved brother and uncle and we have all been left utterly devastated by his death.

"He was a very popular character, who had a heart of gold and wouldn't hurt a fly.

"Whenever he could, he would try to help his friends and family with any problems they had.

"We have been overwhelmed with the support we've received from our friends and the local community during this awful time and we are all so grateful for the messages of sympathy we continue to receive. At this time, we would ask that we be left alone to grieve for Duncan and that our privacy be respected.

"In the past couple of days we have also read a number of very upsetting suggestions and theories about how Duncan died and until we know exactly what happened, we would request that people stop jumping to conclusions and let the police finish their investigation."

West Fife Area Commander Chief Inspector Irene Ralston said: "I want to reassure the local community that, although this is a serious and violent crime, it is not a common event in Fife and we are doing everything in our power to bring whoever is responsible to justice.

"We have high visibility patrols in the Skye Road area and have set up an incident bus. 

"Anyone who has concerns is welcome to speak to an officer there."