Wife of Skye murder-accused tells court husband ‘threatened to kill’ osteopath for ‘ruining his life’

Rowena MacDonald, the wife of the murder-accused from Skye, testified in court that her husband had threatened to kill an osteopath whom he blamed for “ruining his life.” Finlay MacDonald allegedly sought treatment from osteopath John Donald MacKenzie for a back injury in 2022 but was dissatisfied with the outcome, leading to his hostile feelings towards MacKenzie. MacDonald’s wife revealed in the High Court in Edinburgh that her husband expressed intentions to kill the osteopath, claiming that MacKenzie had caused significant distress in his life.

According to Rowena MacDonald, her husband constantly spoke of harming MacKenzie, claiming that he had destroyed his life. She described him as being very upset for an extended period and frequently talking about taking extreme measures. Despite his threatening words, she believed it was just talk and considered him a ranty person who needed to calm down. Additionally, she mentioned that MacDonald was exploring legal action against MacKenzie and seeking a second opinion on his back condition.

The court also heard details about MacDonald’s history of health issues and his propensity for anger outbursts. Rowena MacDonald expressed concerns about her husband’s anger management and indicated that she had raised the issue with his family doctor in the past. She recounted an incident in 2013 involving her husband and his brother-in-law, John MacKinnon, which led to MacDonald avoiding MacKinnon. The court further learned that MacDonald had purchased a shotgun and cartridges in June 2022.

Furthermore, the prosecution revealed that MacDonald has been assessed by mental health professionals and diagnosed with an autism spectrum disorder since the alleged incidents in August 2022. In his defence, MacDonald maintains that his actions were substantially impaired by an abnormality of mind at the time of the incidents. The trial, overseen by Lady Drummond, is ongoing.

In addition to the charges related to MacKenzie and MacKinnon, MacDonald is also accused of attempting to murder his wife and another individual on the same day, along with possession of a shotgun with intent to endanger life. The trial continues as more details emerge about the events leading to the tragic incidents on the Isle of Skye.

In summary, the court proceedings shed light on the complex relationships and circumstances surrounding the murder charges against Finlay MacDonald. The testimonies from his wife provide insight into his mental state and motivations, while the legal process delves into the nuances of his actions. The case highlights the tragic consequences of unresolved grievances and the importance of addressing mental health issues to prevent such devastating outcomes.