A teenager has appeared in court charged with the alleged murder of a man who died after a “disturbance” at a home in Alness.
The boy, aged 15, was arrested by police after they were called to an address in Milnafua, Alness, around 12.30am on Saturday June 17.
Other emergency services also raced to the scene, where a 48-year-old man – named locally as Scott Mitchell – was pronounced dead.
Dozens of tributes have been posted on Mr Mitchell’s Facebook profile since news of his death has spread.
On Monday, the teenager appeared in private at Inverness Sheriff Court where he made no plea, was committed for further examination and released on bail.
Earlier in the day, a stationary police van could be seen parked outside a house that has been cordoned off with police tape.
Man, 48, pronounced dead at scene
A Police Scotland spokeswoman has confirmed that an investigation into the tragedy is continuing.
She told The Press and Journal: “Police received a report of a disturbance in Milnafua, Alness, around 12.30am on Saturday June 17.
“Emergency services attended and a 48-year-old man was pronounced dead at the scene.
“A 15-year-old male has been arrested and has been reported to the Procurator Fiscal in connection with the death”.
More police may be seen in the area than usual, Police Scotland has said.
The press officer added: “Officers have been carrying out extensive enquiries since the incident was reported and these enquiries are ongoing.
“This was an isolated incident and there was no risk to the wider public.
“Officers will be carrying out additional patrols in the area and members of the public are encouraged to speak to a police officer if they have any concerns,” she said.
The boy, whose address was given as the Ross and Cromarty area, will reappear in the dock on a date still to be confirmed.
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