Tributes pour in for murdered ex-football starlet as fundraiser raises huge amount
Josh was found in his home on Monday (Image: Police Scotland)
Tributes have poured in for a murdered ex-football starlet as a fundraiser set up in his honour surpasses £15,000.
The body of 28-year-old Josh Taplin was discovered at a property in Glasgow on Monday, May 5. Police have since launched a murder investigation and are appealing for information from the public.
A GoFundMe page, created by his friend Stephen Kelly, was set up to help support Josh's family with funeral costs. The campaign has received an overwhelming response.
READ MORE: Murder probe after young man found dead inside Glasgow home
Writing on the fundraiser page, Stephen said: "Hi, my name is Stephen, it's still early days from the horrible news today about Josh.
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"Going to sort a whip around of funds for the family for his funeral, take some pressure off the family at a traumatising time for them and all of us.
"Hope everyone can do their bit and we can do Josh boy proud and get him a send off he deserves.
"Gutted doesn't cut it, hope yees are all alright as well heartbreaking.
"Forever Young.
"There's one, Josh Taplin loved and missed by everyone, my her,o my mate."
READ MORE: Emergency crews pictured at incident at historic Glasgow building
Josh was a rising football talent, having played in the youth ranks at Hamilton Accies and excelling at Chryston High School, where he helped win the United Schools Cup in 2013.
He was also a talented boxer who represented Auchengeich Boxing Club.
In a statement, the boxing club said: 'We at Auchengeich Boxing are devastated by the news of our boxer Josh Taplin.
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"Josh won both the Western District Scottish Championships and the British Championships.
"Our thoughts and prayers go out to his family.'
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Detective Chief Inspector Graham McCreadie of the Major Investigation Team said: 'Our thoughts are with the family of Josh at what is a very difficult time. They are being supported by specialist officers.
'It is vital that we find answers for them, and we are appealing for information as our enquiries continue.
'If you were in the area at the time and saw anything that could assist with our investigation, then please get in touch, no matter how small that piece of information might be.
'In particular, I am asking people to check private CCTV footage and see if anything has been captured that could be important.
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"Likewise, if you were driving in the area and have a dash-cam that could assist, please contact us.
'We believe this is an isolated incident and there is no threat to the wider public. Officers remain in the area, and anyone with concerns can speak to them.'
The GoFundMe page in Josh's memory continues to receive donations and messages of condolence. Many friends and well-wishers have expressed their heartbreak and support for his loved ones.
One tribute reads: 'R.I.P Josh Taplin. Absolutely devastating for his family, friends and beautiful girlfriend. I hope you all get the justice you deserve. The world can be so cruel. Keep your loved ones close.'
Another added: 'You'll be sadly missed, Josh. You were a good lad. Rest in peace. Thoughts are with your family through this terrible time.'
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