A 77-year-old former gamekeeper, David Campbell, has been found guilty of the murder of Brian Low, 65, on Leafy Lane in Aberfeldy. The crime occurred in February 2024 and Campbell subsequently attempted to conceal evidence.
Details of the Crime
Brian Low, a retired groundsman, was discovered deceased on February 17, 2024, with his dog, Millie, nearby. Initial investigations by police and a paramedic suggested Low may have died from a sudden medical event or a fall.
However, a forensic examination revealed that Low had been shot. A shotgun pellet was discovered during preparation of the body for a post-mortem examination. Further examination by Dr. Tamara McNamee revealed facial injuries.
A Pattern of Deception
Prior to the murder, David Campbell disabled CCTV cameras at his home in Aberfeldy. He and Brian Low had both worked at Edradynate Estate, where Campbell was head gamekeeper from May 1984 to February 2018, and Low was a groundsman from August 2000 to February 2023.
The jury reached a majority verdict after a 15-day trial at the High Court in Glasgow. Campbell showed no visible reaction to the verdict.
Motive and Background
Evidence presented during the trial suggested Campbell harbored a “festering grievance” against Low, believing Low had attempted to frame him for illegal poisoning of birds of prey. The prosecution described the act as a “brazen, brutal and planned execution.”
Campbell traveled to the scene of the shooting on his wife’s e-bike, carrying a shotgun in a bag. He denied shooting Low, claiming he was at home at the time.
Frequently Asked Questions
When did the murder take place?
The murder of Brian Low took place on February 16, 2024. His body was discovered on February 17, 2024.
Where did the murder occur?
The murder occurred on Leafy Lane, near Pitilie, in Aberfeldy, Perthshire.
What was the initial assessment of Brian Low’s death?
Initial assessments by police and a paramedic suggested Brian Low may have died from a sudden medical event or a fall.
What sentence David Campbell will receive remains to be seen, but sentencing is expected to occur following the guilty verdict. A possible next step is an investigation into the whereabouts of the shotgun used in the crime. Analysts expect further details regarding the motive and planning of the murder to emerge during the sentencing phase.
