Forensics descend on Kirkton Avenue in Joanne Newlands murder probe

This article is brought to you by our exclusive subscriber partnership with our sister title USA Today, and has been written by our American colleagues. It does not necessarily reflect the view of The Herald.

Specialist forensic officers have descended on a block of flats in Glasgow as investigations continue into the death of a woman.

The team was seen working at a property on Kirkton Avenue today, days after emergency services were called to the address at around 8pm on Tuesday, March 17 where the body of 41-year-old Joanne Newlands was found.

We previously reported yesterday that following a post-mortem examination, her death is being treated as suspicious, with detectives carrying out extensive enquiries to establish the circumstances of her death.

Images from the crime scene at Kirkton Avenue. (Image: Robert Perry)

Fresh footage today from the scene shows six forensics officers cordoning off parts of the property in Knightswood, with several bins and other areas being covered with police tape.

41-year-old, Joanne Newlands . (Image: Police Scotland)

They can be seen examining a shared bin shed, repeatedly lowering and raising the shutters as they scrutinise the area.

A panning shot shows a heavy police presence at the adjacent car park, with several cars and vans parked outside, highlighting the severity of the ongoing investigation.

Officers have confirmed a 49-year-old man was arrested on Wednesday, March 18 in connection with the death. He has since been released pending further enquiries.

Images from the Crime Scene at Kirkton Avenue. (Image: Robert Perry)

Detective Chief Inspector Gordon MacKenzie said: “Our thoughts are with Joanne’s family and friends at this time. We are providing them with support as our investigation continues.

Tower Block at Kirkton Avenue. (Image: Robert Perry)

“An extensive investigation is being carried out and we are working to establish the full circumstances of what happened in the days prior to Joanne’s death.

“I am appealing to anyone who may have any information, no matter how insignificant it may seem, to contact us as soon as possible.”

Images from the crime scene at Kirkton Avenue. (Image: Robert Perry)

Local Area Commander, Chief Inspector Karen Cameron, said: “We understand the significant impact this will have on the community, and we would like to thank everyone for their help so far.

“There will be a continued police presence in the area as enquiries continue and anyone with any concerns can speak to officers.”

Images from the crime scene at Kirkton Avenue. (Image: Robert Perry)

An online portal has been set up to encourage members of the public to submit information directly to officers.

The Major Incident Public Portal (MIPP) is a website that gives the public access to a form so they can send information directly to the Major Investigation Team and can be accessed here: https://mipp.police.uk/operation/SCOT26S08-PO1

Information can also be passed to Police Scotland via 101 quoting incident 3344 of 17 March, 2026. Alternatively, Crimestoppers can be contacted on 0800 555 111, where anonymity can be maintained.

Get involved
with the news

Send your news & photos