Murder probe launched as man dies after sickening 'kidnap and torture' ordeal
A man was "kidnapped and tortured" before dying in hospital, with the sickening attack reportedly shared on Snapchat as police launch a murder investigation.
Alan Lawson is said to have been brutally assaulted and then left for dead at his home in Saltcoats, Ayrshire, on Sunday. The 36-year-old died from his injuries in hospital two days later. Lawson's attacker is believed to have held him hostage while he subjected him to horrific injuries in the lead up to his death.
The man later allegedly boasted of the attack online, sharing footage he claimed showed Alan on the floor of a blood splattered room. Images of the clip, seen by the Daily Record, are too graphic to share but show stained clothes and bedsheets scattered across a wooden floor next to the wounded victim.
The apparent attacker also shared a vile, topless selfie of himself with his face and naked torso smeared with blood. People who viewed the traumatising clips on social media say his attacker claimed Lawson was chained to a radiator while he was beaten and slashed, leaving him with grotesque injuries. They say his attacker also claimed to have used superglue in a bid to repair a devastating wound inflicted on Lawson's head.
Police Scotland did not confirm if officers in charge are aware of the online images which are being widely shared. However, they said a murder investigation has now been launched. The attacker has reportedly "gone on the run" and is believed to be hiding in a nearby town.
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One local in the area said: "It's absolutely sickening what has happened to him. It's like something out of a horror film. He was taken away from his home, tortured then dumped back at his own house. I don't know how anyone could do that to another human being. There are some truly evil people out there." Another local added: "It's scary to think that someone could do this and still be walking out. It's really worrying. Most if not all of us around here have seen the pictures. They are absolutely horrifying."
Detective Chief Inspector Ally Semple, Major Investigation Team, said: "Our thoughts are with Mr Lawson's family and friends at this very difficult time. Officers are supporting them as we continue our investigation. We believe this was a targeted attack however it's vital we find out exactly what happened to Alan and I'm appealing to the public for help.
"We're keen to trace his movements on Saturday, 3 February, and Sunday, 4 February, and find out who he was with. Did you see Alan during this time? Perhaps you saw something suspicious in the Alexander Avenue area of Largs. We also know Alan was on New England Road, Saltcoats on the evening of Sunday, 4 February, did you see him there? Do you have dashcam or private CCTV footage of these areas which could help?
"Any information, no matter how insignificant you think it may be, please get in touch. There will be increased patrols of the area and anyone with concerns or information can speak to officers." Anyone with information is urged to contact Police Scotland on 101 quoting reference 3304 of 4 February. Alternatively, contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.
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