Police probing murder of Donegal woman in Scotland have 'positive line of inquiry'

Detectives probing the death of a Donegal woman in Scotland say they are now following a ‘positive line of inquiry’.

The body of Gweedore native Ann Coll was found in a flat in South Lanarkshire at around 12.45am on December 22.

Ms Coll, who was aged 61, was pronounced dead at the scene at Newfield Place in Rutherglen.

Ms Coll hailed from Arduns in Gweedore and has relatives living in west Donegal.

Police Scotland launched a murder investigation after a postmortem examination confirmed her death as being suspicious.

Officers have poured over CCTV in a bid to piece together Ms Coll’s final movements.

"We are fully committed to tracing the person or people responsible as soon as possible and our team are following a positive line of inquiry,” said Detective Chief Inspector Lynsey Watters, who is leading the investigation.

"We truly believe that the answer to this investigation lies within the community.

"Even if you feel the information you hold is insignificant, we would still ask you to come and tell us. It could be the vital piece we need."

CCTV footage obtained by media in Scotland showed Ms Coll visiting her local shop to buy cigarettes on December 19 at 8.46am.

Accompanied by her believed border collie, Ms Coll - who was said to visit the shop multiple times each day - then made the short walk to her home.

The footage is among the last known sightings of Ms Coll.

An online portal has been set up to allow members of the public to send information directly to the police. This can be accessed here: https://mipp.police.uk/operation/SCOT23S45-PO1

Anyone with information can also call 101, quoting reference 0110 of 22 December, or call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.

Detective Chief Inspector Watters added: “This area is one of the main routes from Rutherglen to the southside of Glasgow and has several bars and restaurants nearby.

"Our officers will continue to do everything they can to bring answers for Ann's family and we continue to provide them with support at this very difficult time."