The murder of a man shot dead while walking his dog was initially treated as non-suspicious and medical related until a post-mortem six days later.

The family of Brian Low, 65, eventually discovered how he died one week after the shooting.

Detective Chief Inspector Martin Macdougall, of Police Scotland’s Major Investigation Team (MIT), said: “Brian’s family continue to be supported by specialist officers and have asked for their privacy to be respected as they come to terms with what has happened.”

Mr Low was walking his black Labrador when he was gunned down on a remote track in the Pitilie area on the outskirts of Aberfeldy at around 8.30am on Saturday 17 February.

Emergency services attended, but Mr Low, of Aberfeldy in Perthshire, was pronounced dead at the scene.

Police said the death was first assessed as being non-suspicious and medical-related, but following a medical examination it was established he had injuries consistent with being fatally shot.

A two-doctor post-mortem examination took place on Friday 23 February, which confirmed Mr Low had been shot.

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A murder investigation was immediately launched and his next of kin were notified about the significant update in the case on Saturday 24 February.

DCI Macdougall said: “Since criminality was established on Friday evening, the MITs have carried out a number of lines of enquiry and we are keeping an open mind as to the motive in this case.

“We are now turning to the public for information. Aberfeldy is a remote area with a close-knit community. Anything unusual would stand out.

“I am asking anyone with information, if you noticed anything out of the ordinary or heard anything of concern, to please contact us. It could be vital to our investigation.”

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An online portal has been set up for members of the public to submit information in regard to the case.

High visibility patrols remain in the area as enquiries continue.

Local area commander Greg Burns added: “I understand this is an extremely concerning incident for a small, rural community but please be assured we are doing all we can to piece together the full circumstances and find whoever is responsible.”

Edradynate Estate, where Mr Low worked as a groundsman until his retirement in February 2023, said the news of his death was “extremely sad”.

A spokesperson for the estate added: “We send our deepest condolences to Brian’s family. We have no further comment to make at this time.”

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