Man jailed for 19 years for murdering his dad with hammer in Perth

A man who murdered his own father with a hammer has been jailed for at least 19 years.

Craig Nixon admitted bludgeoning Ian Menzies, 60, to death at a flat in Perth’s Scott Street in June 2021.

The 38-year-old fled to London but was caught and brought back to Scotland.

Prosecutors told the High Court in Glasgow that the cause of death was “multiple blows with a blunt instrument such as a hammer”.

Lady Stacey said no sentence could compensate the “grief and anguish” felt by Ian’s other family including his sister and daughter.

The judge told Nixon: “You have to live the rest of your days knowing you took our own father’s life which is absolutely disgraceful behaviour.

“Nothing I was told from the narrative, a doctor or your counsel explained why you acted so violently and murdered your own father.

“A doctor thought you had a personality disorder as well as a drug and alcohol problem.

“This doctor could find no mental delusions which would mean you are not responsible for your actions.”

Gary Allan KC, defending, told the court Nixon recognised the “extraordinary hurt“ he had caused.

Detective inspector Craig Ross said: “Our thoughts remain with Ian’s family and friends who have been devastated by his tragic death. This has been such a difficult time for them and they have shown great strength and dignity. I hope that his conviction brings them some comfort.

“I would like to thank the public for their help during our investigation and also the officers who worked on this inquiry to ensure Craig Nixon was held to account for his violent actions.”