The devastated family of a Scottish father who died in Colombia say they are 'living in hell' after being informed his remains may have been buried in South America without their knowledge or consent.
A Tragic Discovery and a Fight for Answers
Ross Macquarrie, 38, from Mauchline in East Ayrshire, was found dead by housekeeping staff at his accommodation in Bogotá on November 11 last year. He had travelled to South America for a solo adventure just six days earlier, on November 5.
His family in the UK have been fighting to have his body repatriated to Scotland ever since the tragic discovery. However, in a shocking development, they claim they were told his remains 'may have already been buried in Colombia' due to reported space shortages in the city's morgues.
His ex-partner, Lindsay Melvin, 44, the mother of his three-year-old daughter Blake, said the news left them 'absolutely horrified'. More than two months on, the family remains in agonising limbo.
'We Are Stuck in Limbo'
Lindsay Melvin described the profound distress the situation has caused. 'The whole situation is making us ill with stress', she said. 'More than two months have passed and we've been unable to properly say goodbye to Ross. We can't get closure if we don't have his remains to give him a proper send off.'
Compounding their grief is the lack of clear information and communication. The family states they are unaware of any post-mortem examination taking place, leaving them in the dark about the full circumstances of Ross's death.
'We're currently in the dark about what's going on - if he has even been buried or not - and it is compounding our grief', Lindsay explained. 'There has been no communication with the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) and we're at a loss. We are stuck in limbo, unable to process our grief and unable to move on.'
Calls for Dignity and Support
Lindsay paid tribute to Ross as a devoted father and a fun-loving man. 'Ross was an amazing, doting father. He was in contact every day with Blake. He was an absolute joker and always so full of fun', she said. 'He deserves the dignity of being laid to rest by his loved ones. We want answers from Colombia and the FCDO.'
The case has drawn the attention of local politicians. Local MSP Elena Whitam expressed her sympathy, stating: 'My heart goes out to Ross' family at this distressing time and I stand ready to offer any support I can.' She indicated she would work with MP colleagues to assist the family.
Scottish Labour MP Elaine Stewart commented: 'This is a heartbreaking case which has caused a huge amount of distress for Ross' family. My office and I will continue to do what we can to help bring Ross back to Scotland and give his family the closure they deserve.'
An FCDO spokesperson said: 'We are supporting the family of a British man who has died in Colombia and are in contact with the local authorities.'
The family's nightmare continues as they plead for help to end their torturous wait and finally bring Ross home.
