A body has been discovered during a major search for missing hillwalker Keith Gauld in Aberdeenshire. The 49-year-old was reported missing on Thursday, July 9, after disappearing from the North Deeside Road area of Peterculter on Tuesday, July 7. He had made contact with a family member later that night.
Discovery at Drum Castle
Police Scotland confirmed that around 4pm on Sunday, July 12, 2026, the body of a man was found in a wooded area of Drum Castle near Banchory, Aberdeenshire. Formal identification has yet to take place, but the family of Keith Gauld has been informed. The death is not believed to be suspicious, and a report will be sent to the Procurator Fiscal.
Search Efforts
Police Scotland described Keith as an “experienced hillwalker” and had previously located his van in the car park of Drum Castle. Extensive searches were conducted by the force prior to the discovery. The investigation continues, but authorities have indicated no suspicious circumstances surrounding the death.
