A 22-year-old man has appeared in court charged with murdering an 80-year-old pensioner following a street disturbance in Fife.
James Suttie died on Dunchert Court in Glenrothes in the early hours of Saturday, October 31. Officers were called around 3.20am following reports of a man being seriously injured. Despite the efforts of the emergency services, he died at the scene.
Court appearance and charges
William McAllister, 22, appeared at Kirkcaldy Sheriff Court accused of murdering James by repeatedly stabbing him on the head and body, inflicting blunt force injuries. McAllister, of Fife, was also charged with breaching bail conditions. He made no plea and was remanded in custody while the case was committed for further examination.
Tributes from the community
Heartfelt tributes have since been paid to Jim from devastated members of the tight-knit community. Yvonne Crombie wrote: "Jim was a lovely man who did so much for the pensioners group at Collydean community centre."
Scott Suttie said: "One of the nicest, most helpful men you’ll ever meet. A gentleman, a friend. Never too busy to help. You’ll be sorely missed by everyone who knew you mate." Zana Milonaitis said: "Such a shame. He was a lovely man. He was only talking with me a few days ago. He was such a happy friendly guy."
Kyra Terry went on: "Can’t believe he’s gone. Jim was such a lovely man, and did so much for everyone. Wouldn’t have ever hurt a soul." Kayleigh Campbell wrote: "I know him. He was absolutely lovely. I've sung with this gentleman a few times. He had a lovely voice. Very kind and helped a lot of people. RIP Jim."
Donald Parker Turner said: "My uncle James was a lovely, kind gentleman. I have so many memories of home... we had the best times in the 70s and 80s. So sad that he's gone. You were a great friend to many. We will all miss you." Sandy P Murdoch scribed: "So sad. He was a lovely man who did a lot to help others." Jackie Whyte added: "The kindest man ever you will be missed by those who genuinely cared, Jim."
Police statement
Images from the scene showed an entrance to Dunecht Court cordoned off by cops with officers standing guard beside the strung-up police tape. Surrounding streets, including Kemany Drive and Rhynie Road, were also reportedly locked down.
A Police Scotland spokesperson said: "A 22-year-old man has been arrested and charged in connection with the death of an 80-year-old man in Glenrothes on Saturday, 31 October, 2026.
"Around 3.20am, officers were called to a report of a disturbance in the Dunecht Court area. Emergency services attended and the 80-year-old man was pronounced dead at the scene.
"He can be named as James Suttie. His family is aware and they have asked that their privacy is respected at this very difficult time.
"A 22-year-old has been arrested and charged in connection with the death. He was due to appear at Kirkcaldy Sheriff Court on Monday, 2 November, 2026. A report will be forwarded to the Procurator Fiscal."
