Man jailed for life for 'ferocious' knife murder

A man who stabbed another man to death in a "ferocious" attack in an Aberdeenshire town has been jailed for a minimum of 17 years.

Luke Allan, 29, and Ethan Carlyle, 23, had denied pursuing and repeatedly striking Andrew Ross, 52, in Peterhead's Ives Road in February last year.

After a seven-day trial, a jury found Allan guilty of murder and convicted Carlyle of a reduced charge of assault.

Allan was jailed for life at the High Court in Aberdeen and told he would have to serve at least 17 years before he can apply for parole. Carlyle was sentenced to 300 hours of community service and one year's supervision.

Judge Buchanan said it had been a "ferocious and sustained" attack.

Relatives of Mr Ross described him as a loving father and said his murder had "devastated" the family.

The court heard that Allan had a significant criminal record, while co-accused Carlyle was a first offender.

The two men went on trial in October.

Advocate depute Lindsey Dalziel, prosecuting, told the court that police had found Mr Ross lying on the road, unresponsive and "bleeding heavily".

Jurors were shown CCTV footage of the attack.

Det Con Kim Duncan, of Police Scotland, said it appeared to show Mr Ross being struck several times by men who both looked to have objects in their right hands.

She said Allan could be seen using a "punching or stabbing motion".

Det Con Duncan said Carlyle also began to strike towards where Mr Ross was lying.

The court heard CPR was attempted, but that it was unsuccessful.

The jury's deliberations lasted more than five hours over two days.

The victim's mother, Cathy, said in a statement: "Andrew’s murder has devastated the whole family and everyone who knew him, especially his daughters who have lost a loving father.

"He always had a smile for everybody and was soft-hearted. We’ll never come to terms with what happened but are glad justice has been done and those responsible will face the consequences."

Det Insp James Callander, of Police Scotland, added: "Throughout the investigation and court process Allan and Carlyle have shown little remorse for their crimes.

"I hope these convictions give Mr Ross’ family some form of comfort as they continue to grieve their loss."