A 31-year-old man has made a second appearance in private at Perth Sheriff Court, this time via video link, in connection with the death of a local man on a city housing estate.
James Williamson, of Mull Place, is accused of killing 47-year-old Graeme Hughes who was found dead at his home in Uist Place, North Muirton, on November 4, 2019.
It is alleged that he assaulted the father-of-three by repeatedly punching him on the head and body.
As a consequence, it is claimed that Mr Hughes suffered a heart attack - and that Williamson was responsible for his death.
The accused also faces a further charge of attacking - and then spitting - on employee Ali Canavci at the Istanbul take-away on Perth’s Argyll Road, also on November 4.
He is said to have repeatedly punched the other man on the head and body.
A third charge alleges that Williamson behaved in a threatening and abusive manner at the food premises by shouting, swearing and repeatedly demanding money from staff.
He is also said to have uttered racist remarks and made violent threats.
It is further alleged that the accused repeatedly shouted, swore, acted aggressively and made violent threats at Perth Police HQ and PRI’s A&E Department on November 4.
Williamson was fully committed for trial and was remanded in custody meantime.
Tributes have been paid to Mr Hughes on Facebook, with his aunt, Fiona Kaszta, stating: “It’s like a bad dream, just can’t take it in. He lit up a room the minute he walked in and was always the joker.
“He will be sorely missed by all family and friends.”
Flowers and other tributes were subsequently laid in Mr Hughes’ front garden by family and friends.
