Police charge 77-year-old man in connection with 1976 disappearance of Renee MacRae and son Andrew

A 77-year-old man has been arrested and charged in connection with the death of Renee MacRae and her son.

The missing persons case has been open for over four decades, with Renee and three-year-old Andrew last seen driving out of Inverness on November 12, 1976.

A BMW car belonging to the 36-year-old mother-of-two was later found burnt-out in a lay-by on the A9.

The bodies of Renee and Andrew have never been found, but a detailed forensic search of Leanach Quarry, near Inverness, continues.

The man was arrested in the north of England this morning by detectives from Police Scotland’s Major Investigation Team.

He is expected to appear at Inverness Sheriff Court later today.

Detective Inspector Brian Geddes said: “This is a significant development in an investigation which started when Renee and Andrew disappeared in November 1976.

“Their disappearance has had an unimaginable impact on the lives of Renee and Andrew’s family and friends for several decades.

“This has also been felt keenly in Inverness, but also across Scotland and beyond.

“Police officers and staff from across the country, as well as a number of partner agencies and contractors, have put an enormous amount of work into this investigation from 1976 to the present day, allowing us to reach this point.”

He added: “I would like to thank everyone who has assisted the investigation, whether during our recent enquiries, or at any time since 1976.

“We would also continue to ask anyone who believes they can assist police to contact 101 or you can e-mail a dedicated inbox at SCDHOLMESInverness@scotland.pnn.police.uk.

“You can also contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.”