Detectives from Police Scotland are appealing for help and information after human remains were found in a burnt-out van in Newmilns on Monday.
Emergency services were called at 12:05am to a fire in a lay bay a single-track road between Priestland and Darvel in the Galston Moor area. This area is known locally as Monk Belt or Mast Walk.
The victim has not been identified and the death is being treated as unexplained.
Detective Inspector Craig Gilmour from Police Scotland said: “At this stage of our investigation, it is unclear why the van was parked in this layby or how it came to be on fire. Anyone with information must come forward.
“The area is very picturesque and popular with walkers and dog walkers, and it’s thought several vehicles will have passed by the scene at the time.
“We are appealing for anyone who was in the area around midday on Monday and may have seen a white van parked in a layby, or a van on fire, to please get in touch.
“I would also ask if you heard any loud noises, or any motorists with dashcam footage which could be of significance, to please get in touch.”
Anyone with relevant information should contact 101, quoting incident number 1615 of Monday, 24 June 2024.
