St Andrews University student extradited from US to face attempted murder charge in Dundee

An American accused of the attempted murder of a fellow St Andrews University student has been extradited from the US to Scotland.

Alexander Hilton appeared at Dundee Sheriff Court after he arrived back in the country.

A warrant was issued for the 24-year-old’s arrest in connection with an alleged attempt on the life of Robert Forbes by spiking his wine with methanol, which is used in antifreeze, in 2011.

The alleged incident happened before the New Hall Ball at the Fairmont St Andrews, while the pair were studying at the town’s university.

Mr Forbes, who is also from the US, spent a week in hospital.

He suffered symptoms including loss of vision and needed hospital treatment.

Hilton, who was studying economics and computing, returned to his home in Princeton, Massachsetts less than a fortnight after the alleged poisoning.

He appeared in private on petition at Dundee Sheriff Court charged with assault to severe injury and permanent impairment and attempted murder.

Hilton made no plea or declaration and the case was continued for further examination.

Sheriff Elizabeth Munro granted bail ahead of further court dates being set.