Police can now confirm that a murder inquiry is underway following the discovery of 64-year-old Roger Gray’s body within his home in Merchiston Crescent on Saturday March 19.
A post-mortem, which took place yesterday, confirmed that Mr Gray suffered multiple stab wounds in the attack, which took place overnight between Friday and Saturday.
His body was found in the hallway of his flat around 8am on Saturday, after police were called to the address by gas board personnel who were there to investigate a smell of gas from the property.
A full major incident team has been established at Leith Police Station, with around 40 detectives dedicated to the murder inquiry, supported by specialist officers.
A confidential hotline to the police incident room has been set up for anyone who has any information, on (0131) 311 5480. Alternatively, a dedicated email address – operation.magnalium@lbp.pnn.police.uk – is also available.
Detective Chief Inspector Gareth Blair, who is leading the investigation, said: ‘The post-mortem examination has confirmed that Mr Gray suffered extensive stabbing injuries, in what was clearly a sustained attack.
‘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. I would urge anyone who can assist to contact us on the confidential hotline number, or to email us on the dedicated address provided.’
