Locals pay tribute to ‘murdered’ John

TRIBUTES were paid today to a “lovely” man whose death is now the subject of a murder probe.

John Watt (pictured), 50, was found with serious head injuries in Albert Street, Stobswell, just after 3.30am yesterday.

Police were called and he was taken to hospital where he died last night.

Three boys — aged 15, 16 and 17 — have been detained in connection with Mr Watt’s death, which detectives are treating as murder.

Today, neighbours of Mr Watt, who lived in Morgan Street, told the Tele of their shock, describing him as a “lovely guy”.

Archie Veitch, 23, said police visited the tenement to speak to residents. He added: “That was the first I was aware that something awful had happened to John. I think he had lived here a long time. When I moved in, he came and introduced himself.

“He was a really lovely man who always made time to talk to you. It’s really hard to take in what has happened, especially to someone who lives in the same building.”

Student Chaniece Hoy, 22, said she was very upset to learn what had happened.

She added: “He was always so kind. He would move aside when he met you on the stairs to let you past. He would always take the time to speak when I met him.

“This is a shocking thing to have happened and really hard to take in.”

Pub worker Lewis Brodie, 22, said: “This is just so incredibly sad — he was such a nice man.”

Local newsagent Yasir Khalid, 30, said he was aware someone had been taken to hospital after an incident, adding: “I’m shocked that something like this has happened so close by.”

Detective Chief Inspector Andy Patrick, of Tayside Division’s major investigation team, said: “We can confirm that Mr Watt passed away in hospital yesterday evening and our thoughts are with his family and friends.

“We are conducting a thorough investigation into the full circumstances surrounding Mr Watt’s death and a visible police presence will remain in the area while officers continue to carry out inquiries.

“I’d like to thank the local community for their patience while we progress with the investigation.”

An officer stands guard on Albert Street today after John Watt, 50, was allegedly murdered.