The tranquil Perthshire town of Aberfeldy is preparing for a significant legal event as a former head gamekeeper, David Campbell, is set to stand trial next year accused of the shotgun murder of local dog walker, Brian Low. The charges, which Campbell, 76, strenuously denies, have sent shockwaves through the close-knit community, transforming a serene part of the region into the focus of a profound criminal investigation.
Mr. Low, 65, was tragically found dead on a secluded stretch known as Leafy Lane, near Pitilie Track—a popular area for outdoor enthusiasts and dog walkers in February 2024. The scenic pathways, usually bustling with residents enjoying the fresh air and stunning Highland views, became the scene of an alleged brutal crime that has deeply unsettled the local populace. Extensive Allegations of Concealment and Prior Malice
The accusations against Campbell extend beyond the immediate act of murder, painting a picture of deliberate efforts to evade justice. Prosecutors allege that he meticulously disabled security cameras at a property situated on Crieff Road, in what is described as a calculated attempt to obscure his movements and conceal his presence near the scene of the crime. This alleged action points towards a planned effort to mislead investigators and avoid detection in the aftermath of Mr. Low’s death.
Further complicating the case are claims that Campbell had previously shown significant ‘malice and ill-will’ towards Mr. Low, an allegation that hints at a deeper, more personal motive for the alleged crime. This element of the prosecution’s case suggests a history of animosity leading up to the fatal incident, adding a layer of complexity to the unfolding legal drama. A Pattern of Intimidation and Attempts to Obstruct Justice
Beyond the murder charge, David Campbell faces a series of serious allegations related to perverting the course of justice. It is claimed that in the days and weeks following Mr. Low’s death, between February 16 and May 24, 2024, Campbell actively disposed of crucial evidence. This included an unregistered Walther RM8 Rotex airgun, its associated shotgun, and a gun bag, all allegedly discarded at an undisclosed location. Such actions, if proven, would indicate a determined attempt to erase any links to the crime.
Adding to the list of alleged concealment attempts, it is said that Campbell visited Crighton’s Cycles in Blairgowrie to have new tyres fitted onto an electric bicycle. This particular bicycle is believed by prosecutors to have been instrumental in his movements related to the alleged murder. Furthermore, he is accused of disposing of a box, a cartridge bag, and the original bicycle tyres at the Aberfeldy Recycling Centre, further suggesting efforts to eradicate any physical traces that could connect him to the tragic event. Historical Charges Reveal Troubling Conduct
The case also brings to light a troubling history of alleged behaviour, with Campbell facing five breach of the peace allegations spanning back to the mid-1990s. These charges illustrate a pattern of intimidation and threatening conduct over many years, potentially offering insight into the accused’s character and past interactions within the community.
– In July 1995, Campbell is accused of threatening a man named Alan Stewart, causing him significant fear and alarm. – Between March and May 1997, he allegedly engaged in disorderly conduct at the prominent Edradynate Estate in Aberfeldy, where he reportedly threatened to shoot a worker, Gregor Forrest. This incident, occurring on a well-known local estate, would have been particularly unsettling. – Further allegations from June to August 1999 claim he threatened to shoot another individual, Richard Wright, also at the Edradynate Estate, indicating a recurring pattern of verbal aggression involving firearms. – In a separate incident between June and September 2011, Campbell is accused of threatening Maksymillan Konchanski at The Square, a central and busy part of Aberfeldy. – Finally, between June and September 2012, he allegedly threatened to shoot a woman’s dog at Ardlach House, Aberfeldy, underscoring a disturbing propensity for threatening behaviour even towards animals.
The virtual preliminary hearing at Glasgow High Court, overseen by Judge Lord Cubie, confirmed that the trial is scheduled to commence on February 2 next year, anticipated to last three weeks. The court was informed by Advocate Depute Greg Farrell that a key Crown witness in the case had unfortunately passed away. The forthcoming trial is poised to be a pivotal moment for the Aberfeldy community, as residents seek answers and justice for the death of Brian Low, an event that has left an indelible mark on their peaceful corner of Perthshire.
Mr. Low, 65, was tragically found dead on a secluded stretch known as Leafy Lane, near Pitilie Track—a popular area for outdoor enthusiasts and dog walkers in February 2024. The scenic pathways, usually bustling with residents enjoying the fresh air and stunning Highland views, became the scene of an alleged brutal crime that has deeply unsettled the local populace. Extensive Allegations of Concealment and Prior Malice
The accusations against Campbell extend beyond the immediate act of murder, painting a picture of deliberate efforts to evade justice. Prosecutors allege that he meticulously disabled security cameras at a property situated on Crieff Road, in what is described as a calculated attempt to obscure his movements and conceal his presence near the scene of the crime. This alleged action points towards a planned effort to mislead investigators and avoid detection in the aftermath of Mr. Low’s death.
Further complicating the case are claims that Campbell had previously shown significant ‘malice and ill-will’ towards Mr. Low, an allegation that hints at a deeper, more personal motive for the alleged crime. This element of the prosecution’s case suggests a history of animosity leading up to the fatal incident, adding a layer of complexity to the unfolding legal drama. A Pattern of Intimidation and Attempts to Obstruct Justice
Beyond the murder charge, David Campbell faces a series of serious allegations related to perverting the course of justice. It is claimed that in the days and weeks following Mr. Low’s death, between February 16 and May 24, 2024, Campbell actively disposed of crucial evidence. This included an unregistered Walther RM8 Rotex airgun, its associated shotgun, and a gun bag, all allegedly discarded at an undisclosed location. Such actions, if proven, would indicate a determined attempt to erase any links to the crime.
Adding to the list of alleged concealment attempts, it is said that Campbell visited Crighton’s Cycles in Blairgowrie to have new tyres fitted onto an electric bicycle. This particular bicycle is believed by prosecutors to have been instrumental in his movements related to the alleged murder. Furthermore, he is accused of disposing of a box, a cartridge bag, and the original bicycle tyres at the Aberfeldy Recycling Centre, further suggesting efforts to eradicate any physical traces that could connect him to the tragic event. Historical Charges Reveal Troubling Conduct
The case also brings to light a troubling history of alleged behaviour, with Campbell facing five breach of the peace allegations spanning back to the mid-1990s. These charges illustrate a pattern of intimidation and threatening conduct over many years, potentially offering insight into the accused’s character and past interactions within the community.
– In July 1995, Campbell is accused of threatening a man named Alan Stewart, causing him significant fear and alarm. – Between March and May 1997, he allegedly engaged in disorderly conduct at the prominent Edradynate Estate in Aberfeldy, where he reportedly threatened to shoot a worker, Gregor Forrest. This incident, occurring on a well-known local estate, would have been particularly unsettling. – Further allegations from June to August 1999 claim he threatened to shoot another individual, Richard Wright, also at the Edradynate Estate, indicating a recurring pattern of verbal aggression involving firearms. – In a separate incident between June and September 2011, Campbell is accused of threatening Maksymillan Konchanski at The Square, a central and busy part of Aberfeldy. – Finally, between June and September 2012, he allegedly threatened to shoot a woman’s dog at Ardlach House, Aberfeldy, underscoring a disturbing propensity for threatening behaviour even towards animals.
The virtual preliminary hearing at Glasgow High Court, overseen by Judge Lord Cubie, confirmed that the trial is scheduled to commence on February 2 next year, anticipated to last three weeks. The court was informed by Advocate Depute Greg Farrell that a key Crown witness in the case had unfortunately passed away. The forthcoming trial is poised to be a pivotal moment for the Aberfeldy community, as residents seek answers and justice for the death of Brian Low, an event that has left an indelible mark on their peaceful corner of Perthshire.