Police investigate item in 1976 MacRae murder case

Police are investigating a recently discovered item near a quarry linked to the 1976 murders of Renee MacRae and her three-year-old son Andrew. Their bodies have never been found. Renee's car was found on fire close to Dalmagarry Quarry on November 12, 1976, but there were no signs of her or Andrew. William MacDowell, 81, was convicted of their murders in 2022 but died shortly after. He did not reveal where he disposed of the bodies. Recently, during road work near the quarry, police found a potty and some carpet, prompting them to conduct further investigations. Police Scotland confirmed the item is being examined, but they did not provide more details. The quarry was first searched during the original investigation. A young policeman noted an unusual smell at that time, but funding issues halted the search before it could be continued. In 2004, a more extensive search took place, with forensic experts examining 35,000 tonnes of soil and removing 2,000 trees. Despite their efforts, only old debris, men's clothing, and animal bones were found. MacDowell received a life sentence, with a minimum term of 30 years, after he was found guilty. During the trial, details emerged about his affair with Renee and the circumstances surrounding their disappearance. MacDowell was described as the company secretary for a firm owned by Renee's estranged husband. He passed away in February 2023.