A north-east mechanic killed in his own home was battered over the head, the Press and Journal can reveal.
Brian McKandie’s body was discovered at his cottage in Badenscoth, near Rothienorman, on March 12 this year.
But despite a huge murder inquiry his killers have not yet been caught.
The 67-year-old death certificate has now revealed he died from blunt force head injuries.
The retired television engineer and motor mechanic died at 4.25pm on the day he was found, the document states.
Locals described Mr McKandie as a handyman who could fix anything and who was a “cracking bloke”.
More than 1,000 people have been questioned by detectives investigating his death, who have also made repeated appeals for information.
Officers believe Mr McKandie may have known his attacker through either friendship, business or a third party he has been introduced to.
Last week Detective Chief Inspector Iain Smith described it as a “strange and challenging case” but said that new information has continued to emerge.
It is understood that detectives have a good idea of the type of the heavy weapon used to kill the popular mechanic, and are eager to trace two men who were seen speaking to Mr McKandie in the hours before his death.
Several witnesses informed the police of two men – one described as 30-50 years old and of heavy build, the other slimmer and aged between 20-30 years old – who visited the cottage on Friday, March 11.
A burgundy or maroon estate car was also seen at the house with one witness describing it having a different coloured panel on the rear passenger side.
Mr McKandie’s death was registered in Banff by his brother William last week.
Anyone with information about the murder of Mr McKandie is urged to phone the police on 101 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 if you wish to remain anonymous.
