Prosecutors have alleged that a former head gamekeeper accused of the shotgun murder of a retired groundsman held a deep-seated hatred for his alleged victim, as detailed in court proceedings. David Campbell, aged 77, is on trial at the High Court in Glasgow, facing charges related to the death of Brian Low, 65, which occurred on a remote track near Aberfeldy in Perthshire during February 2024.
Allegations of Hatred and Violence
Campbell has pleaded not guilty to eight charges, including murder, and has lodged a special defence of alibi, asserting he was at home at the time of the alleged shooting. The incident is said to have taken place at Leafy Lane, close to the Pitilie track, where Mr Low was pronounced dead by a paramedic at 9am on 17 February 2024. A post-mortem examination conducted six days later confirmed the cause of death as gunshot wounds to the neck and chest.
Testimony from a Local Witness
During the trial, local farmer Sally Crystal provided testimony, describing her friendships with both men and her involvement at the Edradynate Estate during shooting seasons. She noted that while Campbell and Mr Low initially appeared to get along, a growing coldness developed over time. Ms Crystal recounted an alleged incident where Campbell reportedly stated, "I cannot stand that man. I loathe him. I cannot understand why you like him." In a second alleged conversation, he was said to have expressed even stronger sentiments: "I f****** loathe that man. I hate him."
Ms Crystal spoke highly of Mr Low, characterising him as a "gentle" individual, while also acknowledging Campbell's reputation as a "very good shot" and a highly respected professional who contributed to the estate's commercial success. Prosecutors allege that Campbell displayed "malice and ill-will" towards Mr Low prior to the incident, culminating in the alleged discharge of a shotgun that resulted in fatal injuries at the scene.
Additional Charges and Allegations
Beyond the murder accusation, Campbell faces further charges related to attempts to conceal evidence. Prosecutors claim he disabled CCTV cameras at Tigh Na Caorann on Aberfeldy's Crieff Road to obscure his whereabouts. He is also accused of attempting to defeat the ends of justice between 16 February and 24 May 2024 by:
- Disposing of the alleged murder weapon and gun bag.
- Disposing of a Walther Rotex RM8 airgun.
- Having replacement tyres fitted on an electric bike reportedly used during the shooting.
- Dumping items such as a box, cartridge bag, and bicycle tyres at Aberfeldy Recycling Centre or other locations.
Historical Breach of Peace Charges
Campbell additionally faces five separate breach of the peace charges spanning from July 1995 to September 2012. These allegations involve acting in a disorderly manner that put four men and two women in a "state of fear and alarm." Specific claims include threats to shoot three of the men, as well as one woman and her family.
One complainer, retired police officer Alan Stewart, testified about his interactions with Campbell due to their respective roles in gamekeeping and wildlife crime investigation. Mr Stewart described an incident at Scone Palace's game fair in 1995, where Campbell allegedly remarked, "It's great what vermin you see when you haven't got a gun," which he interpreted as a venomous threat. While Mr Stewart stated such threats were common in his line of work and did not overly bother him, they distressed his wife and granddaughter.
Ongoing Legal Proceedings
The trial also includes charges of possessing a Walther Rotex RM8 airgun without the relevant certificate between May 2017 and February 2024, and discharging it on various occasions. Presided over by Lord Scott, the proceedings continue as the court examines the evidence and testimonies presented.
This case highlights the serious nature of the allegations and the complex interpersonal dynamics involved, with the outcome pending further judicial review.
