Home   News   Article

Trial over death of Inverness businessman John Birrell is delayed


By Ali Morrison

Register for free to read more of the latest local news. It's easy and will only take a moment.



Click here to sign up to our free newsletters!
John Birrell.
John Birrell.

The trial of a retired eye surgeon who is charged with killing an Inverness businessman did not begin today as scheduled.

Another trial at the High Court in Inverness has not concluded and was adjourned today until possibly Friday for legal reasons.

This has delayed proceedings against Hamish Towler who is accused of the culpable homicide of John Birrell at a road in Blackpark, Inverness on August 17, 2020.

Prosecutors allege the 66-year-old obstructed the van Mr Birrell was travelling in to block it passing.

Towler is then said to have hit the vehicle with a dog lead before pulling the 55-year-old out.

The charge claims Mr Birrell was pushed across the road, punched then smacked on the face with the leash.

Towler is further accused of shouting and swearing at him.

It is stated Mr Birrell suffered a cardiac arrest and died as a result.

It is unclear when the case will proceed.


View our fact sheet on court reporting here




This site uses cookies. By continuing to browse the site you are agreeing to our use of cookies - Learn More