Police in Edinburgh have launched a murder investigation following the death of a man in the west of the city.

Officers were contacted around 3.50am on Thursday 7th March after the 36-year-old was found lying in the street, having sustained serious injuries.

He was sadly pronounced dead at the scene and an inquiry, led by Police Scotland’s Major Investigation Team, was launched.

Following a post-mortem examination, the death of the man, who has now been identified as Lionel Simenya from Burundi, is being treated as murder.

Detective Inspector Stuart Alexander from the Major Investigation Team said: “First and foremost, our deepest sympathies are with the family of Lionel Simenya and we are pursing various lines of enquiry to identify those responsible for causing his death.

“It is understood that Mr Simenya was within his vehicle in Fords Road and has become involved in an altercation. Although investigations are at an early stage, there is nothing to suggest that he has been a victim of a knife attack.

“I have a full team pursuing various lines of enquiries and I am particularly keen for anybody in the surrounding area who has private CCTV or dashcam footage from the early hours of Thursday morning to contact us.

“We are making enquiries to ascertain whether a Peugeot car that was stolen on Thursday morning on Fords Road and found abandoned in the same street is connected.

“Lionel Simenya moved to the UK a number of years ago. He was a highly thought of, hard working man who kept himself to himself and has met a tragic death.

“I am confident the answer to solving this horrific crime lies in the communities of Edinburgh and no matter how insignificant you think any information is, please contact us and let us assess it.

“This must be playing on the consciences of the individuals responsible and I would urge those people to come forward.”

In a statement issued through Police Scotland, the family of Lionel Simenya said: “We are profoundly shocked and extremely saddened that our beloved Lionel has been taken from us in such a cruel manner.

“Lionel was a hard-working and dedicated chef, who had won an award for his skills and was being considered for employment at the Scottish Parliament.

“We would ask anyone who can help police with their investigation to get in touch and provide any information that can bring those involved in his death to justice.

“Anyone who was within that car should search their conscience and realise that our family have been left devastated by their actions. Hopefully then they will do the right thing.”

Those with information contact the Major Investigation Team via 101, quoting incident number 332 of 7th March. Alternatively, an anonymous report can be made to the charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.