The family of a Scottish man who passed away in Colombia has received distressing news that his body might have been laid to rest in South America without their awareness. Ross Macquarrie, aged 38 and from Mauchline in East Ayrshire, was discovered deceased in Bogotá by the staff of his lodging on November 11 last year. Since then, his loved ones have been endeavoring to repatriate his remains to Scotland.

In a further upsetting development, Ross’ relatives claim they were informed that his body could have already been interred in Colombia due to space constraints in Bogotá’s morgues, with no knowledge of any autopsy being conducted.

His former partner Lindsay Melvin, aged 44, who shares a three-year-old daughter named Blake with Ross, expressed their anguish and frustration over the lack of information regarding his final resting place. Lindsay emphasized the emotional toll this situation has taken on them, impeding their ability to bid a proper farewell to Ross.

Ross had embarked on a solo trip to South America on November 5, and concerns arose when he fell unresponsive to messages after indicating feeling unwell during a video call with his daughter. Authorities in Colombia were reportedly investigating the circumstances surrounding his death.

Lindsay emphasized the agony of not having closure due to the absence of a post-mortem examination and the lack of communication from relevant authorities. Friends and family remembered Ross as a devoted father and a joyful individual, highlighting his positive qualities and the need for closure for his grieving loved ones.

Local representatives, including MSP Elena Whitam and Scottish Labour MP Elaine Stewart, expressed sympathy for Ross’ family and pledged support in their quest for answers and closure. The Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office acknowledged their involvement in assisting the family during this challenging period.