Billyjoe Bates murder: police search for 'bare-chested man'

15 February 2019, 15:16 | Updated: 15 February 2019, 15:18

Police are searching for two men who were seen around the time of a disturbance that led to a man's murder in Glasgow in November.

Billyjoe Bates was found in Ashfield Street, Milton, at its junction with Kippen Street at about 2.30pm on Sunday November 18.

The 28-year-old was taken to Glasgow Royal Infirmary and died in the early hours of Thursday November 22.

Officers are now appealing for information nearly three months on from the incident with details of a disturbance happening before he was found.

They understand two men were seen in the area at the time, one of whom was possibly bare-chested and may have been joined by another male dressed in grey jogging trousers and a grey or black hooded top.

Detective Inspector Scott McCallum said: "Billyjoe was violently attacked during this disturbance and I have no doubt that there are people who know exactly what happened to him and who is responsible.

"I would urge those people to do the right thing and come forward to help us provide answers for his devastated family.

"We understand a man, who may have been bare chested, was seen in Kippen Street at Ashfield Street around the time of the disturbance.

"Another man dressed in grey jogging trousers and a grey or black hooded top is also believed to have been in his company.

"It is vitally important that anyone who saw a man matching either of these descriptions gets in touch in case they have information which could be significant."

A team of specialist officers is continuing to work on the case.

Mr McCallum thanked those who had helped with their appeals so far.

He added: "Ashfield Street is a busy area for both vehicle and pedestrian traffic and I'm keen that any person travelling or visiting the area at that time to please get in touch.

"The support we have received from local residents and businesses during our investigation has been greatly appreciated and I would like to take this opportunity to thank them for their assistance so far and reassure them that we are doing everything we can to solve this crime.

"Anyone with information is asked to contact Police Scotland's Major Investigation Team (WEST) via 101, quoting incident number 2422 of Sunday 18 November 2018.

"Alternatively you can call Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 where details can be given in confidence."