Man in court on murder charge after death of Scots dad in Perth
He was charged in connection with the death of the 29-year-old whose body was discovered on the Dunning to Kinross road in Perthshire on Friday.
A man has appeared in court charged with murder following the death of a young Scots dad in Perth.
John Higgins appeared in private at Perth Sheriff Court today. He was charged in connection with the death of 29-year-old Stephen Speddie whose body was discovered on the Dunning to Kinross road in Perthshire on Friday, June 13 at 7am.
Higgins, 42, from Perth and Kinross, was charged with murder and attempting to defeat the ends of justice when he appeared in the dock today.
He made no plea to the charges. He was remanded in custody and committed for further examination. Higgins will be back in court within the next eight days.
Police launched a murder probe following the shocking find of Stephen's body on Friday.
Tributes poured in for the dad who leaves behind a two-year-old daughter. Stephen's heartbroken father, Dougie Bryce set up a Go Fund Me page to help with funeral costs.
On the fundraising page, he said: "Our son Stephen Speedie sadly passed away suddenly on Friday 13th June, The fund's will be used for funeral costs and to give him the best send off and would help us massively.
Stephen sadly leaves behind his beautiful 2 year old daughter who he adored dearly."
Shocked friends described Stephen as a "character" and "brilliant guy". A Facebook page was set up to give loved ones the chance to pay their condolences and share photos and memories.
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Pal Samantha-Jane Turner said: "I can't stop thinking about you, you will always have a special place in my heart forever and always."
While Kaitlin Kirkpatrick said: "Rest in peace Speedie, you were such a character, always making everyone laugh and always there for your friends.
"We enjoyed many-a night out together and so many laughs, I'm so saddened by the loss of you. Rest easy up there and know you will be missed by so many."
Taylor Harrison added: "Heaven has gained a brilliant guy and lovely guy. He will be watching us all. We will miss him and his banter."
James Alexander David Brown added: "Rest in peace bro. Brother from another mother, I can't believe you are gone.
Detective Chief Inspector Carron McKellar said: 'Our thoughts are with Stephen's family and friends at what is an extremely difficult time. Officers are offering support and keeping them updated with the progress of our investigation.
'I understand this incident will be concerning for the local community however I'd like to reassure them, we believe this was an isolated incident and there is no wider risk to the public.
'Additional officers remain in the area and anyone with concerns or information can approach them or call 101.'
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