A cash reward for information that leads to the identification of the infamous 'cheesewire killer' has been increased to £25,000 after a generous donation from an Aberdeen taxi firm. Driver George ‘Dod’ Murdoch was brutally murdered with the makeshift weapon after telling the control room he was going to pick up a fare in Culter at around 8.35pm on September 29, 1983.
Tragically, the 58-year-old taxi man never made it to his destination with his body found next to his vehicle around two miles into his journey. Two cyclists saw him being attacked and raised the alarm but he could not be saved by police officers who found him near the Deeside Railway Line a short time later.
A Crimewatch appeal previously set a reward amount at £20,000 for information which could finally bring justice for his family with a fresh TV appeal made back in March 2022. Now Russell McLeod, managing director of Rainbow City Taxis, which now owns the firm that George worked for, has offered the company’s support.
He said: “We were approached by some of George’s family around three weeks ago. After talks with them, they explained they were trying to get businesses to donate towards the reward.
“We agreed to donate £5000 providing that the killer is identified. One of the reasons we decided to do this is because the company George worked for, City Taxis, is now part of Rainbow City Taxis.
“Although it was a long time ago and even if you don’t think it’s relevant, go to the police with your story if you know anything.
“I understand the family’s frustration and our thoughts are very much with them. Hopefully this helps to get them the justice they deserve and need.”
George’s wife Jessie sadly died in 2004 without ever getting answers about her husband’s killer. She had previously worried about his safety but he’d told her he would never resist a robber.
The driver’s money and wallet were stolen during the attack which sparked a major murder investigation with over 8,000 statements taken by investigators.
The suspect was described as being in his late 20s to early 30s, with dark hair that sat over his ears.He was of a thin build and about 5ft 7in, and would now be in his 60s or older.
After featuring in the March TV appeal, Detective Inspector James Callander, from Police Scotland's Major Investigation Team, said: “Regardless of how much time has passed, we continue receive a positive response from members of the public from all around the world when we appeal for information about this senseless murder.
“Over the years we have received sporadic information about what may have happened to George, and this is always investigated. It is apparent that many people will still have information that may help us bring closure to his family and it is hoped that today’s national television appeal may be seen by those people.
“Stories are passed on, or people remember something that may have seemed insignificant to them at the time, but is actually vital for us. We are urging anyone who has not come forward previously who believes they can assist the investigation to contact 101.”
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