THE father of the man accused of the murder of Dundee scientist Dr Fortune Gomo has sent condolences to her family as he said he’s been left “utterly devastated”.
Kenny Rattray said he hopes there is some form of support network for Gomo’s family and that he is struggling to function since the tragic incident last weekend.
His son, Kyler Rattray, is the man accused of murdering Dr Gomo.
The 20-year-old faces a single charge on petition of using a knife to stab her to death.
The 39-year-old scientist, Dr Gomo, was pronounced dead at the scene after emergency services attended the incident on South Road at around 4.25pm on Saturday.
Rattray, of Adamson Court, made no plea during the brief hearing, which was held in private.
Sheriff Gregor Murray committed Rattray for further examination and remanded him in custody; a further court hearing will take place within the next eight days.
Kenny has now spoken out as he wanted to send his condolences to Dr Gomo’s family.
He said: “I send my condolences to her family, her daughter, her close friends.
“I’ve just been praying every single hour that people could find the strength to get through this, whether they do or not, I just hope they’ve got some kind of support network, because it’s absolutely horrendous.”
Kenny added: “I’m trying to get through the hours here.
“We’ve been left utterly devastated.”
Dr Gomo was an environmental and water resources scientist and PhD graduate of the University of Dundee.
She had recently started a job with Scottish Water as a senior service planner in water resource planning.
A University of Dundee spokesperson described her death as a “truly shocking event”.
The National African and Black Association’s Dundee chapter released a statement on Monday paying tribute to the “cherished mother, wife, friend, colleague, and dedicated member of our Dundee community”.
It continued: “Dr Gomo was an exceptional woman whose warmth, compassion, and steadfast commitment left an indelible mark on everyone fortunate enough to know her.
“She was not only a valued member of our community but also a source of strength, inspiration, and kindness to many.”
