Murder Hunt After Josh, 28, Found Dead in West End Property
Tributes Pour In As Traumatised Friends raise £16,000 on GoFundMe for Funeral Costs
A murder probe is underway in Glasgow after a young man was found dead in a flat on a quiet residential street — sparking a frantic hunt for clues as devastated loved ones demand answers.
Josh Taplin, 28, was discovered lifeless inside a property on Knightswood’s Caldwell Avenue around 3.35pm on Bank Holiday Monday, 5 May.
Stunned neighbours looked on as police sealed off the area and launched a major investigation.
Now, murder detectives are desperately appealing for CCTV, dashcam, and any witnesses who might have seen anything unusual that day.
Detective Chief Inspector Graham McCreadie of the Major Investigation Team said:
“Our thoughts are with Josh’s family at this incredibly difficult time. They are being supported by specialist officers as we work tirelessly to find out what happened.”
He added: “We’re urging anyone who was in the area to come forward. Even the smallest piece of information could be crucial.”
The tragic discovery has rocked the normally quiet street in the west of the city.
One neighbour, who asked not to be named, said: There were police everywhere. It’s terrifying to think something so awful could happen right on your doorstep. Josh seemed like a nice lad. It’s just so sad.”
Josh played for the Hamilton Academical youth team and represented Auchengeich Boxing Club in Stepps.
The boxing club paid tribute, saying: “Auchengeich Boxing are devastated at hearing the news of our boxer Josh Taplin.
“Josh won Western District Scottish Championships and British Championships.
“Our thoughts and prayers go out to Josh’s family.”
A GoFundMe page, set up by Josh’s close friend Stephen Kelly, has already raised more than £16,000 to help cover funeral costs and support the grieving family.
In a touching tribute on the page, Stephen wrote:
“Hi, my name is Stephen. It’s still early days after the horrible news about Josh. I’m putting together a fundraiser to help the family with funeral costs — just to take some of the pressure off during what’s a traumatising time for them and for all of us.
“Let’s all do our bit to give Josh boy the send-off he deserves. ‘Gutted’ doesn’t even come close to how we’re feeling. Hope everyone’s holding up.
Forever young.
There’s only one Josh Taplin — loved and missed by everyone. My hero, my mate.”
Police Scotland confirmed that while they believe the incident is isolated, officers will remain in the area for the time being to reassure residents.
Anyone with information is urged to contact Police Scotland on 101, quoting incident number 2069 of May 5, or anonymously via Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
A Major Incident Public Portal has also been launched at: https://orlo.uk/Vz7aQ