Police find DNA profile in George Murdoch murder investigation

Police have made a breakthrough in a 40 year old unsolved murder in Aberdeen.

They've found a DNA profile that could help the investigation into the death of George Murdoch in the city on September 29, 1983.

Police say this was possible thanks to advancements in forensic analysis.

The 58-year-old taxi driver, known to his family as Dod, was killed after he turned onto Pitfodels Station Road.

No one has ever been arrested for his murder and Police Scotland says its major investigations team continues to review and investigate the case.

Officers continue to look for the man seen wearing an Iron Maiden t-shirt in Wilson’s Sports Bar on Market Street in Aberdeen in 2015.

In a statement George's family says: “Our family was rocked by what happened to Dod and it continues to affect us today.

“Forty years is a long time to go without all of the answers to what happened to him, but it’s never too late to see justice served and we urge anyone with any information that could assist the investigation, no matter what it is, to contact police.

“Dod was a gentle, likeable and kind-hearted man, who usually had a smile on his face. We all miss him terribly and hope for some closure.”

Detective Inspector James Callander said: “We have identified a DNA profile which may assist our ongoing enquiries.  

“I would ask everyone to think back to the time George was murdered and if you have any information or concerns from around that time, please don’t dismiss it and contact us. 

“We are hopeful this DNA evidence will allow us to progress this enquiry for George’s family.”

Anyone with information's asked to contact police on 101 or email SCDHOLMESAberdeen@scotland.pnn.police.uk

It comes as a new podcast is launched examining the circumstances of the murder, speaking with George's family, experts and detectives.

The five-part series is called 'who is the cheese wire killer'.