The grieving mother of a man stabbed to death in Glasgow is demanding police release his killer's image, saying the public needs to be protected.
Kyle Zybilowicz's murder
Kyle Zybilowicz, 29, was killed by Darren McDade, then 34, at his flat in Glasgow's south side on July 22, 2023. McDade attacked the NHS worker with a pair of scissors, then tried to hide the weapon and burn his clothes. Initially charged with murder, he was convicted of culpable homicide under provocation and sentenced to eight years in prison.
Mother's plea
Kyle's mother, Alison Taylor, told the Glasgow Times: "Kyle's face was splattered all over and the fact that Darren McDade's isn't out there to me, is a disgrace. They're quick enough to put a photo out of the victim, which is all over the internet. Nobody knows what he looks like." She added: "He can change his name. Nobody knows what he looks like. This guy can get off scot-free. Photos should be put out automatically, as soon as the trial is over, the photo should go out automatically of the person that did it first to safeguard the wider public."
Political support
MSP Russell Findlay backed her calls, saying: "It should be standard practice for Police Scotland or the Crown Office to release a photo of those who kill people or commit other serious crimes. Grieving families should not be forced to beg the authorities to apply some basic common-sense."
Victim Support Scotland's view
Debbie Adams, interim Chief Executive at Victim Support Scotland, said: "These situations can be incredibly distressing for people. It is made worse when decisions, such as why an image can or cannot be released, are made without clear reasons being provided."
Police Scotland's response
A Police Scotland spokesperson said: "Our thoughts remain with Kyle's family, friends and loved ones. No-one should have to go through the trauma that they have had to endure. In reviewing the request for the release of an image, Police Scotland must consider a range of competing legal responsibilities and balance these with the needs of the family of the deceased. We will endeavour to release an image where there is a policing purpose for doing so, it is practicable and where there are no legal restrictions in place that would preclude release. This is in line with national guidance."
