DETECTIVES investigating the suspicious death of a 25-year-old man in Bellshill have officially named the victim as the force launches a murder inquiry.

Police Scotland said it is already following a positive line of enquiry after the death of Ross Gow on Wednesday.

The force said it believes Mr Gow - known locally as Gowser - was involved in an altercation with another man in a house on Bellvue Crescent.

The Evening Times previously reported how, at around 4.40am on Wednesday, police were called to a report of a man found seriously injured on Bellvue Crescent.  

He was taken by ambulance to Monklands District General Hospital, but died a short time later.  

Following a post mortem examination, his death is being treated as murder and a major inquiry has been launched.

Relatives are aware and a full report will be forwarded to the Procurator Fiscal.

Detective Inspector Susan Balfour, from the Major Investigation Team, said:  “Our enquiries are continuing to establish the circumstances surrounding this death and officers are following a positive line of enquiry.

“Information has been received that Mr Gow was involved in an altercation with another man in a house in Bellvue Crescent early on Wednesday morning. Officers are currently carrying out enquiries in that street.

“Again, I would ask anyone who was in the area of Bellvue Crescent between 3am and 5am on Wednesday morning who saw anyone, or any vehicles, to come forward to detectives.”

Anyone with information should contact Wishaw Police Office through 101 quoting reference number 0310 of Wednesday, October 3 2018.  

Alternatively, Crimestoppers can be contacted on 0800 555 111, where anonymity can be maintained.