A murdered grandmother was the victim of what police have described as a brutal attack in her own home.
Mary Logie, 82, was found dead in the living room of her Leven house on Tuesday evening.
Police today confirmed her death is being treated as murder, and a major investigation has been launched.
Although there were no signs of forced entry, senior investigator leading the inquiry Detective Chief Inspector Keith Hardie believes theft may have been the motive.
Mrs Logie also known as Rae – sustained head injuries in the attack and was pronounced dead by paramedics in her house in Green Gates.
The murder scene was discovered between 8pm and 8.30pm by a worried neighbour who had been unable to reach her on the phone.
Describing the assault as brutal, Mr Hardie said: “It was on a defenceless 82-year-old woman in the safety of her own home.”
He declined to comment on the nature of the assault or on whether a weapon had been used.
As she lived alone he said it was yet to be established whether any possessions were missing.
One of Mrs Logie’s two sons, who live down south and saw her at Christmas, has travelled to Fife to help with police with their inquiries. She also has a daughter who lives in Australia.
Her family paid tribute to her in a statement issued by police, which said: “Mary (Rae) Logie, a beloved mother, grandmother and friend will be sadly missed.
“She was born, bred and lived in the Leven area all her life. The family are assisting the police in the investigation and wish to be left alone at this difficult time.”
Chief Inspector Adrian Annandale said: “This incident will undoubtedly leave the local community within Leven both shocked and deeply angry and I want to assure the public that we are doing everything we can to identify whoever is responsible.
“Crimes of this nature are extremely rare, both within Leven and across Fife, however, we recognise the impact this will have on local residents and we are utilising all resources at our disposal to bring Mary’s killer to justice.”
Mrs Logie was a churchgoer who had many friends in the area who would visit regularly.
She was described as a very active, independent and capable woman.
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