Murder probe after man run over and stabbed in Greenock

Michael Beaton was found with serious injuries on a Greenock street

Police have launched a murder inquiry after a 35-year-old man was run over and stabbed on a street in Greenock.

Michael Beaton was found with serious injuries on Drumfochar Road at about 19:20 on Sunday.

He was taken to the Queen Elizabeth University Hospital in Glasgow were he died a few hours later.

Police Scotland said their initial inquiries showed that Mr Beaton was struck by a vehicle and then attacked with a bladed weapon.

Det Ch Insp Lynsey Watters said: "This was an extremely violent attack which has shocked the local community and caused disruption to their daily routines whilst we carry out our forensic inquiries."

Police cordoned off surrounding roads while the investigated the incident

Nearby St Patrick's Primary School was closed for the day after police cordoned off neighbouring streets.

In an email to parents Inverclyde Council said "contingency arrangements" had been put in place and pupils were asked to report to other schools in the area.

Det Ch Insp Watters added: "We are doing everything we can to trace the person or persons responsible for this shocking incident and that there will be an increased police presence in the area.

"Anyone who witnessed the attack, saw any suspicious individuals or vehicles in or around the area, or has any other information that could assist our investigation is asked to contact police immediately."