Aberfeldy Murder Suspect Admits Dislike for Victim in High Court Testimony
In a dramatic courtroom revelation, the man accused of murdering his former colleague near Aberfeldy has admitted to a jury that he "didn't like" the victim. David Campbell, 77, took the stand at the High Court in Glasgow on Tuesday, where prosecutors allege he gunned down Brian Low, 65, on a remote track in Perthshire on February 16, 2024.
"We Just Didn't Get On"
When questioned about his relationship with Mr Low by his defense KC Tony Lenehan, Campbell stated plainly: "We just didn't get on. He didn't like me and I didn't like him." The accused further elaborated that the two men "didn't speak to each other," painting a picture of longstanding animosity between former colleagues who both worked at Edradynate Estate.
Campbell served as head gamekeeper at the estate from May 1984 to February 2018, while Mr Low worked as a groundsman from August 2000 until February 2023. Despite acknowledging their poor relationship, Campbell testified that Mr Low was "really good" at his job, offering a nuanced perspective on their professional dynamic.
Contested Testimony and Additional Charges
The trial heard conflicting accounts about the depth of Campbell's animosity toward the victim. Local farmer Sally Crystal, 77, testified earlier this month that Campbell had allegedly told her: "I f****** loathe that man. I hate him." Campbell firmly denied making this statement and claimed he never discussed his colleague with Ms Crystal.
Beyond the murder charge, Campbell faces five separate breach of the peace charges spanning from July 1995 to September 2012. These charges allege he acted in a disorderly manner that put three men and two women in a "state of fear and alarm." During testimony, Campbell admitted to making an "unpleasant" comment to retired police officer Alan Stewart in 1995, saying: "The vermin you see when you don't have a gun in your hand." He insisted this was not meant as a threat.
Forensic Evidence and Timeline
Senior forensic scientist Neil McKay of the Scottish Police Authority provided crucial evidence to the court, indicating that Mr Low was most likely shot from a distance of between 19 and 45 meters. This forensic analysis forms a key component of the prosecution's case against Campbell.
A detailed timeline of Campbell's movements on the day of the alleged murder was presented to jurors. It was accepted that Campbell twice placed duct tape over his doorbell camera—at 7:35 AM and again at 11:10 AM on February 16, 2024. The home's CCTV system was manually shut down at 10:09 AM that same day. The first footage recorded after the camera was covered occurred at 7:32 PM, showing Campbell in a boiler suit exiting through the rear door of his house.
Weapons and Concealment Allegations
Prosecutors allege Campbell disabled CCTV cameras at his Aberfeldy residence in an attempt to conceal his whereabouts. He is further accused of attempting to defeat the ends of justice 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 alleged shooting, and dumping evidence at Aberfeldy Recycling Centre or elsewhere.
Agreed evidence presented to the jury revealed that Peter Fullard, who has since died, purchased a Walther Rotex RM8 air rifle and accessories for Campbell in May 2017—nearly two weeks after authorities had refused Campbell's firearms certificate application. Campbell faces an additional charge of possessing this airgun without the relevant certificate between May 2017 and February 2024.
Trial Continues with Multiple Denials
David Campbell has pleaded not guilty to all eight charges against him and has lodged a special defense of alibi, claiming he was at home at the time of the alleged shooting. The alleged murder occurred in Leafy Lane, Aberfeldy, near the Pitilie Track. Mr Low's body was discovered on February 17, 2024, with a paramedic pronouncing him dead at 9:00 AM.
Prosecutors allege Campbell showed "malice and ill-will" toward Mr Low and discharged a shotgun at him, causing fatal injuries. The trial, presided over by Lord Scott, continues as jurors weigh the substantial evidence presented by both prosecution and defense teams.
