An off-duty police officer fighting for his life after being found in a St Andrews street appears to have sustained his injuries by accident.
Constable Gerard Kelly, 26, had been out on a stag night in the Fife town when he was discovered in a cobbled alleyway with head and back injuries.
He was taken to Ninewells Hospital, Dundee, where he is understood to be in a coma.
However, reports elsewhere that the 26-year-old, from East Kilbride, had been attacked seem to be premature, with his injuries said to be consistent with some kind of fall.
His family have released a statement thanking people for their support.
They said: “Our family and Jen (Mr Kelly’s girlfriend) would like to thank all our friends and family for their continued support.
“Thanks are also extended to the police and hospital staff for their continued efforts. Messages of support are very much appreciated.
“We ask that you keep Gerry in your thoughts and prayers.”
Police are continuing to investigate and have stopped short of saying the case is no longer being treated as suspicious, but it is believed the focus is now very much on Mr Kelly’s movements on Saturday night and into the early hours of Sunday morning.
It’s understood the off-duty officer was staying in a holiday cottage in the town’s Rose Lane when he was found in the early hours of Sunday.
The lane was taped off and tents for forensic officers were set up, and officers have been stationed there for the last couple of days as work is carried out.
A cherry picker was also on the scene late on Monday evening to scour the rooftops of the buildings for further clues, amid fears that Mr Kelly may have fallen from height.
Rumours had been circulating locally that Mr Kelly may have been shot with some sort of airgun, but that speculation has been dismissed by Police Scotland.
Police confirmed the inquiry is ongoing and anyone with information should contact Police Scotland on 101.