Quiet, popular man suffered violent attack
Detectives investigating the killing of a man in a Paisley flat were yesterday dredging drains in a hunt for the murder weapon.
Stephen Wallace, 46, died following a “violent attack” at Williamsburgh Court in Lacy Street.
The high-rise block was sealed off as specialist teams carr ied out searches of streets nearby.
Detectives were seen removing paper evidence bags containing trainers and were also spotted pulling
a length of wrought iron metal from a nearby drain, before bagging it up.
The body of Mr Wallace was discovered shortly before 11am on Sunday and a massive operation has been launched by detectives to catch his killer.
Detective Chief Inspector Maxine Martin, from Police Scotland’s Major Investigation Team, said: “Stephen was found with injuries consistent with a violent attack and extensive enquiries are ongoing to establish exactly what happened to him and who is responsible.”
Officers say the response to the inquiry so far has been positive, but called on anyone with information to get in touch.
DCI Martin added: “The response from the local community has been extremely positive and this is assisting us to piece together Stephen’s movements over the past few weeks.
“I would appeal to anyone who knows Stephen, if you have seen or spoken to him recently, to please contact police. I’m also keen to speak to anyone who may have heard any disturbances or noticed anyone acting suspiciously in the area around Williamsburgh Court to please get in touch.
“Your information could prove vital in helping us to establish exactly what happened to Stephen and identify the person or persons responsible for his death.”
Locals expressed shock at the brutal slaying, saying Mr Wallace was well-liked in the area.
The owner of the nearby Sherwood fish and chip shop, Oktay Demircioglu, said Mr Wallace was a regular customer.
“He would come in maybe two or three times a week,” the 42-year-old said. “He liked his fish suppers. “He was just a normal customer and would joke with the girls.
“He had a walking stick. It’s a shame for this to happen to someone disabled.”
Williamsburgh Court resident Thomas Wright, 59, has lived at the flats for six years and said he knew Mr Wallace.
“He seemed like a quiet guy,” he said. “He said hello to you. “I’m absolutely shocked. This is not a bad area.”
Seventy- one- year- old John Gemmell lives in flats opposite Williamsburgh Court.
He said: “I wasn’t expecting this to be honest with you. “It’s unbelievable.” Anyone with any i n f o rmation should contact police on 101, or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555