A man accused of murdering his father in Perth and then fleeing the country has maintained his innocence.
Craig Nixon, 37, allegedly killed Ian Menzies, 55, at a property in Scott Street on June 3 2021.
Court papers state Nixon assaulted his father by repeatedly striking him on the head and body with a hammer or similar instrument or otherwise inflicting blunt force trauma injuries upon him.
The charge states Nixon murdered him, having previously evinced malice and ill-will towards him.
Theft and drug charges
Further allegations claim Nixon attempted to defeat the ends of justice between June 4 and 10 2021.
It is stated while he was conscious of his guilt, Nixon washed his hands and disposed of the weapon.
The charge says he removed clothing worn during the alleged murder and travelled with a holdall from Perth to London by train.
Nixon is said to have stayed at various addresses in London in order to conceal or destroy evidence linking him to the alleged crime, as well as to avoid detection.
Nixon faces other charges including using Mr Menzies’ bank card and stealing £458.70 from a cash machine on the day of the alleged murder.
He is further accused of attempting to strike Mr Menzies on the body and uttering threats to kill him in March 2021.
Other charges state Nixon was involved in being concerned in the supply of cocaine as well as possession of the drug.
Family tribute
Nixon pled not guilty on Friday to 10 charges at the High Court in Glasgow.
A further hearing was fixed for December by Judge Lord Matthews.
In a tribute released through Police Scotland, Mr Menzies’ family previously said: “Ian was the best dad, grandad and brother in the world.
“He was caring, respected and loved dearly by friends and family.
“Words cannot express how sorely he will be missed.
