Wife of Skye killer fled to Scots island for safety after London knife attack

The wife of Skye rampage murderer Finlay MacDonald sought refuge on the Isle of Skye for safety after enduring a traumatic knife attack in London, the Daily Record reported. Rowena Fellows, as she was known in 2012, believed that relocating to the Scottish island would provide her with a more secure environment following two incidents where she was assaulted while studying in the capital. A close friend revealed that Rowena had displayed immense strength in overcoming the previous attacks, only to face a more vicious assault from her then-husband, who attempted to take her life.

Rowena, now 34 and divorced, was the first victim of MacDonald’s violent spree, during which he brutally attacked her in front of their children in August 2022. He was later sentenced to 28 years in prison after being convicted of murdering his brother-in-law and attempting to kill three others. Reflecting on the ordeal, a friend shared, “She has had so much to put up with and was already carrying mental scars from the trauma of the attacks in London when the horrors erupted on Skye.” Rowena experienced a robbery in Islington, London, in March 2012, where she was mugged at knifepoint while walking home. This incident, along with a previous mugging, left her mentally scarred, prompting her decision to move away from London.

After MacDonald’s sentencing at the High Court in Edinburgh, Rowena expressed relief that justice was served and highlighted the challenges she continues to face, including undergoing surgery due to complications from previous stab wounds. Despite the harrowing experiences, she remains resilient and determined to recover. MacDonald, a former marine engineer, attempted to shift blame onto others, including his wife, for his violent actions in 2022. He also tried to justify his behaviour by citing his autism diagnosis. The court received notice of MacDonald’s intention to appeal both his conviction and sentence.

Rowena’s journey highlights the resilience of survivors of domestic violence and the long-lasting impact of such traumatic experiences. Seeking solace on the Isle of Skye symbolises her pursuit of safety and healing from past traumas, demonstrating her courage in rebuilding her life after enduring such unimaginable horrors.