Hunt is on for Leslie’s killers

Leslie Berry (19), known to his family and friends as Les, was found with fatal injuries in his flat by the emergency services at approximately 12.45am on Sunday morning.

Paramedics were unable to save him and the 19-year-old tragically died at the scene.

Following a post-mortem examination, police are treating his death as murder.

Detectives are carrying out door-to-door enquiries and analysing CCTV footage for clues.

Detective Chief Inspector Kenny Dewar said: “A young man has lost his life in what appears to be a senseless attack.

“We believe that earlier in the evening, around midnight, a disturbance had taken place either in or near to Leslie’s flat.

“Extensive enquiries are ongoing to establish the exact circumstances surrounding his death and to trace those responsible.

“I am encouraged by the response we have had from the local community so far and I am particularly keen to speak to anyone who saw or heard anything in the area of Park Lane and Kilsyth town centre between midnight and 1.30am.

“I would ask anyone with information or knowledge about this crime to contact police as a matter of urgency.”

One neighbour, who asked not to be named, said: “It sounded as if there was a party going on, there was loud music coming from those flats, but you obviously don’t know exactly which house.

“We didn’t think too much of it but then a bit later police cars and an ambulance turned up.

“We just thought it must’ve got out of hand.

“You would never imagine something like this would happen here, it’s not a bad street or anything. It’s just terrible.”

Leslie was originally from Cumbernauld where he attended Greenfaulds High.

Head teacher of the school, Dr John May, said: “Everyone at the school is shocked and saddened by this terrible news and our thoughts and sympathies go out to Leslie’s family.”

Tributes and flowers were left on a grass verge at the rear entrance to the flats on Westport Street.

One read: “You are missed so much and loved so much. You are with the angels now. Les Berry, gone but never forgotten.”

Anyone with information is asked to contact Cumbernauld Police Office on 01236 503900.

Alternatively, you can call Crimestoppers in confidence on 0800 555 111.