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Police confirm that second death of pensioner in Oban is being treated as ‘suspicious’

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The second death of a pensioner in Oban is now being treated as “suspicious”, police have confirmed.

Two elderly men died following an incident in Columba Court off Castle Road in the Dunollie area of the town on Monday.

Officers are investigating the possibility that the deaths could be linked.

A police spokesman said: “Around 8pm on Monday October 1 the body of a 75-year-old man was found within a flat in Columba Court.

“Following a post mortem examination his death is now being treated as suspicious. Inquiries are ongoing.

“One line of inquiry is that it may be linked to the death of Martyn Smith.”

Police were originally called to Columba Court at 9.40am on Monday following reports of an elderly man being seriously assaulted.

Oban alleged murder victim named as 73-year-old Martyn Smith

Martyn Smith, 73, was taken to Lorn and Islands Hospital, where he later died.

Oskars Rancevs, 32, was arrested and appeared in private at Dumbarton Sheriff Court on Tuesday charged with the murder of Mr Smith.

The 75-year-old man has been named locally as John White, a former taxi driver. It is believed he suffered a heart attack. His death is now being treated as “suspicious”.


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Inspector Mark Stephen of Oban Police Station said: “I am aware people in Oban are shocked and concerned about what happened. I would like to reassure people it was an isolated incident.

“We have got additional officers on patrol and we will continue that over the weekend.

“We will work with housing officers and carry out visits next week to give guidance, reassurance and answer any questions residents might have.”

Forensic officers in white suits have been at the scene all week.

A large area of Columba Court and Castle Road has been cordoned off, with residents having to sign in with police to gain access to their homes.

Yesterday the cordoned off area had been reduced in size so that only Columba Court was still cordoned off.

The homes at Columba Court are owned by West Highland Housing Association. Lesley McInnes, chief executive, said: “West Highland have been anxious to make personal contact with all our tenants in Columba Court after the tragic incident this week.

“We had to allow the police time to complete their investigations but we have managed to speak to some of our tenants by phone.

“Next week we are doing joint visits with the police to provide reassurance.”