Retired gamekeeper David Campbell accused of shotgun murder is granted bail – Crown Office appeals Sheriff’s decision

Retired Edradynate Estate gamekeeper David Campbell, 75, made his second court appearance today, accused of the shotgun murder of retired groundsman Brian Low, 65, who was killed whilst walking his dog near Aberfeldy, Perthshire in February 2024.

Campbell’s first court appearance was at Dundee Sheriff Court on 27 May 2024 after being charged with murder and of attempting to defeat the ends of justice between 17 February and 24 May 2024 by hiding the alleged murder weapon.

Edradynate Estate where the accused and the victim had previously worked. Photo by Ruth Tingay

Appearing in private at Perth Sheriff Court on Tuesday 4th June 2024 for a full committal hearing, prosecutors allege that Campbell, of Crieff Road, Aberfeldy, murdered Brian Low by shooting him in the head and body on Leafy Lane, Pitilie, on 16 February 2024. Prosecutors claim he killed former Edradynate Estate worker Mr Low, having ‘previously shown ill-will and malice towards him‘.

Campbell made no plea during the hour-long hearing and was fully committed for trial.

Campbell’s defence solicitor David Holmes argued successfully for bail, which was granted by Sheriff Clair McLachlan. However, the Crown Office has appealed this decision and Campbell remains on remand until the appeal has been heard. Bail appeals can take up to 72 hours.

For those interested in the early court and bail procedure for those charged with serious offences in Scotland such as murder, this useful blog by Scottish advocate Andrew Crosbie and this useful blog by Douglas Thomson from the Society of Solicitors in the Supreme Courts of Scotland will be of interest.

As this case is live, comments are turned off until criminal proceedings conclude.

UPDATE 8 June 2024: Former Edradynate Estate gamekeeper & murder suspect David Campbell refused bail (here)

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