The devastated family of a young Ayrshire dad murdered in the street say that life is quiet without him.
Sean McKay, 23, was stabbed by evil Gavin McVey in October 2021 in Dalry while walking home from work.
The 40-year-old was found guilty by a jury following a trial at the High Court in Paisley. He was sentenced to 21 years behind bars.
Sean's heartbroken family paid tribute to the young dad who was "an innocent man and never caused any trouble."
In a statement released through Police Scotland, Sean’s family have said: “Sean was a much loved son, brother, partner, dad, nephew, cousin, grandson and friend. He was the most gentle, caring, loving, supportive and admirable person. He kept us all going, he was the life and soul of the party and loved dancing.
“Life is so quiet without him, he was always the loudest one in the room. He loved football, Game of Thrones and Marvel films. He was very family orientated and loved life. He was so proud of being a dad and an uncle. It is so sad that his son and nephew will not get to know him and know his character. We will always make sure that they remember him. He was so proud of us all. He showed his love to everyone.
“He was an innocent man and never caused any trouble. He was just walking home from work and his life was taken from him.
“It is such a relief that the man who took Sean’s life is away behind bars. The fact there were so many people here throughout this trial showed how much losing Sean has impacted all his family and friends.
“We are so grateful to everyone that has supported us. We would like to thank all the witnesses, the Police, the Crown, the jury and the support from everyone who came and has supported us throughout.
“The whole family really miss him, life will never be the same.”
Detective Inspector Stephen McCulloch, senior investigating officer said tragic Sean was killed for no reason other than McVey's own "wickedness".
DI McCulloch added: “This unprovoked and utterly senseless attack has left Sean’s family absolutely devastated. Our thoughts remain with all his family, in particular his young son and his partner, at this extremely difficult and upsetting time.
“I know that nothing can change what has happened, however, I hope that his conviction affords his family and friends some justice and satisfaction that McVey is now behind bars and will be for a long time.
“Gavin McVey callously took Sean’s life. Sean was simply walking home when McVey, armed with a knife, stabbed and killed him for absolutely no reason other than his own wickedness.
“McVey will now have to face the consequences of his actions.
“I would like to thanks Sean’s family, friends and those in the wider community who helped officers during this difficult enquiry.”
Read next:
- Scots whisky giants are given green light for new distillery operation in Ayrshire
- Eyesore site next to Ayrshire houses to be turned into car wash facility
- Name change and £500,000 makeover for popular bar after takeover
- Timeline on new Ayrshire super school unveiled as pupils set for post-summer holiday entry
- 'Negotiations' ongoing as cinema chain eyes up Ayr Odeon following shock closure
Don't miss the latest Ayrshire headlines – sign up to our free daily newsletter
