A TEENAGER has appeared in court charged with murder following a "targeted attack" at Irvine Beach.
The 17-year-old, who cannot be identified due to his age, made no plea during a brief hearing held in private at Kilmarnock Sheriff Court on Tuesday, May 20.
He is accused of killing 16-year-old Kayden Moy.
He also faced charges of carrying an offensive weapon in a public place and attempting to pervert the course of justice.
The teen, described as a resident of East Kilbride, has now been committed for further examination and remanded in custody.
He will return to the dock to face the charges again in due course.
His appearance in court comes after Police Scotland confirmed that a male had been arrested and charged in connection with the incident at Irvine Beach on Saturday, May 17.
Police were called to reports of a 16-year-old boy being seriously injured following a disturbance in the area shortly before 7pm that day.
Emergency services attended and Kayden, of East Kilbride, was taken to Crosshouse Hospital in Kilmarnock. He died a short time later.
The 17-year-old accused was arrested in connection with the matter the following day before he was charged on Monday, May 19.
Police Scotland said extensive enquiries into the incident remain ongoing, though there is no risk to the wider public.
Detective Chief Inspector Campbell Jackson, Major Investigations Team, said: “Our thoughts remain with Kayden’s family at this very difficult time. Specially trained officers are continuing to support Kayden’s family.
“We believe this was a targeted attack and there is no risk to the wider public.
“We have a dedicated team of officers working on this investigation and I am again asking anyone who may have information which could help us and who has not yet come forward, to please contact us.
“No matter how small it may seem, it may be the key piece we need.
“I would like to thank the community in both Irvine and East Kilbride for their support so far."
Superintendent Jim McMillan added: “This was a shocking and deeply upsetting incident for not just those at Irvine Beach on Saturday, but for Kayden’s family, friends and the wider communities affected.
"We are engaging with the communities in both Irvine and East Kilbride.
“There continues to be a police presence in the area and additional patrols will be carried out where required.
"I would urge anyone with question or concern to approach a local officer – they are there to help.”
