Man charged with murder in Elgin

AN ELGIN man today appeared in court charged with murder and two counts of attempted murder.

David Johnstone (35) was arrested after 83-year-old Frank Kinnis died in hospital following an alleged attack in Birkenhill Woods to the south of Elgin on Monday morning.

A 70-year-old couple, Rev Morris Smith, of Aberlour Parish Church, and wife Janette, remain in hospital with serious head injuries after also being allegedly attacked.

Johnstone made no plea and was committed for further examination and remanded in custody.

He will appear at court again within the next eight days.

Related article: Tribute to 'doting, warm-hearted and unfailingly dependable' great-grandfather who died following attack in Elgin wood