Watchdog to probe police over unnoticed shooting in Aberfeldy

Forensic officers examine the site in Aberfeldy where Brian Low was shot

The Police Scotland watchdog will investigate the force's handling of a murder in Aberfeldy after officers did not notice the victim's gunshot wounds.

Brian Low, 65, was shot while he was walking his dog in Pitilie on the outskirts of the Perthshire town at about 08:30 on Saturday 17 February.

His death was initially thought to be non-suspicious and medically-related.

A post-mortem examination then took place six days after his death, prompting a murder investigation.

The Police Investigations and Review Commissioner (Pirc) confirmed on Friday it had been directed by the Crown to investigate the circumstances.

It will submit findings to the Crown once its investigation has concluded.

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Local area commander Greg Burns told a police press conference on Thursday: "From the officers' initial assessment, it presented as a non-suspicious, medically-related death at that point in time.

"I think that probably gives you an indication how the body presented at that time."

Mr Low worked as a groundsman at a nearby sporting estate before retiring in February last year.

His body was discovered on a remote track next to his black Labrador, which was unharmed.

Police have declined to release information about the location of Mr Low's wounds or the type of weapon used in the killing.

On Wednesday 21 February, a medical examination established that Mr Low had injuries consistent with being fatally shot. A post-mortem confirmed this two days later.

The murder inquiry was launched that Friday and Mr Low's family was updated on Saturday.

Detectives have set up an online portal where members of the public can submit information.

Timeline of events

Saturday 17 February - Brian Low's body is found with his dog on a remote track in the Pitilie area near Aberfeldy

Wednesday 21 February - Medical examination establishes that Mr Low had injuries consistent with being fatally shot

Friday 23 February - A post mortem confirms that Mr Low had been shot

Saturday 24 February - Police tell Mr Low's family that he had been murdered

Tuesday 27 February - Police announce they have launched a murder investigation into Mr Low's death