A man who was in jail awaiting trial for murdering his ex-partner has died in prison.
Vikki Soloman, 44, died in the East Craigs area of Edinburgh on Monday, July 20. Emergency services responded to reports of a woman with serious injuries at a property on Craigievar Square at around 8.45pm. Despite best efforts of crews she was pronounced dead at the scene.
Confession and arrest
Lee Greenan, 46, was arrested after heading into his local pub "covered in blood" and confessing to the killing, the Daily Record reports. Greenan was remanded in custody ahead of trial after he appeared at Edinburgh Sheriff Court on Thursday, charged with her murder and two charges of assault.
Death in custody
The Scottish Prison Service confirmed he had been found dead at HMP Edinburgh on Sunday. It is understood Greenan died by suicide.
The property on Craigievar Square was cordoned off while forensics worked, while the Mid Yoken pub, just over a mile away, was also locked down and guarded by police as part of their investigation. In a statement the pub said the police investigations were concerning an incident outside the pub and offered their condolences to Vikki's family.
Witness account
A local who was at the Mid Yoken when Greenan turned up told the Record: "Lee is well known locally. He played for the local football team, Clermiston Star, and loved his football. After killing Vikki, he walked into the pub covered in blood and said he'd murdered his partner. It was shocking, like something out of a film. It is tragic how this has played out. The families and friends of Vikki and Lee are in shock."
Domestic violence awareness
A woman's network Vikki was part of released a statement following her death about domestic violence. It said: "Vikki was a member of our community and last night she was killed in her home. There are no words to describe how horrific this incident is, and the trail of devastation it has left. Nearly half of women killed in Scotland are killed by a partner or ex-partner, and 89 per cent of domestic abuse happens inside the home, the place we’re supposed to feel safest. Police Scotland recorded over 66,000 domestic abuse incidents last year, and campaigners say that’s still only the visible part of it. If any of this feels close to home, if you’re scared, or something doesn’t sit right, reach out."
Vikki was described as "beautiful" and "a diamond" by those who knew her. Lisa Mullen said: "Thoughts to friends and family! You are a diamond, a beautiful person, until we see each other again. You will always hold a special place in my heart." Arlene Mill added: "You were beautiful inside and out. I'm gonna miss our wee chats putting the world to right. Can’t take this in. Thoughts are with all the family."
A Scottish Prison Service spokesperson said: "Every death, whether in prison custody or in our communities, is a tragedy for all those who knew and supported the individual. Following the death of someone in our care, Police Scotland are advised, and the matter reported to the Procurator Fiscal. Fatal Accident Inquiries are held in due course."
