'Murdered' musician's family say kind tributes have 'brought comfort'

The family of a Highland musician are thanking those who have made kind tributes to him following his death earlier this month.

32-year-old Iain MacFarlane was found dead at a house on Strathspey Place, Inverness, on December 4th.

On December 8th, 52-year-old Waldemar Jaronski appeared at Inverness Sheriff Court accused of murdering him.

In a statement issued by police today, Iain's family say they are devastated by his death, but tributes to him have brought "comfort at this difficult time".

Community thanked for support

The family statement said: “We are devastated by the death of Iain.

"We would like to thank the community for their support and kind tributes to him.

"It has brought us comfort at this difficult time.

"We ask for privacy as we continue to come to terms with what has happened.”

Police Scotland say specially trained officers are supporting Iain's family and friends.

Detective Inspector Caroline MacKay said: “Our thoughts remain with Iain’s family and friends.

"We have specially trained officers supporting them at what is a very difficult time.

“I’d like to thank the local community for the support and patience shown while enquiries were conducted in and around the area.

“Anyone with concerns or further information can still contact us on 101, quoting reference 0596 of 4 December, or approach officers.”

Multiple individuals and organisations have paid tribute to Iain, who was originally from Ullapool, since his death earlier this month.

A GoFundMe page set up to help pay for his funeral has already raised more than £8,000.