Fishcross murder accused unfit to stand trial
- Published
Catherine Pryde's body was discovered at a house in Fishcross in March last year
A Clackmannanshire pensioner accused of murdering his partner has been deemed unfit to stand trial.
John Pryde, 77, is accused of killing Catherine Pryde at the 74-year-old's home in Fishcross in March last year.
Prosecutors allege Pryde, who is currently in the State Hospital at Carstairs, inflicted blunt force trauma to his partner's head, neck and body.
An examination of facts hearing - where evidence will be led before a judge, but no jury - will instead take place.
Mr Pryde, who also uses the first name Ian, faces a further accusation of attempting to defeat the ends of justice.
This includes claims that he tried to wash bloodstained clothes and floors.
Lady Stacey fixed a date of 10 April in Dundee for the examination of the facts hearing.