Victim was stabbed 15 times in his own home
A man has admitted to murdering a 68-year-old grandfather in a savage knife attack at his home in GlasgowJohn Cameron, 47, stabbed John Lynch 15 times in the chest, neck and back on March 17 last year. The motive for the killing remains unclear, but the court heard that Cameron had a history of violence and drug abuse.
Mr Lynch, who was described by his family as the “best grandad in the world”, was found dead in his flat in Cumbernauld Road by his son-in-law, who had gone to check on him after he failed to answer his phone. A post-mortem examination revealed that he had suffered multiple stab wounds, some of which penetrated his heart and lungs.
Cameron, who lived in the same block of flats as Mr Lynch, was arrested two days later after forensic evidence linked him to the crime scene. He pleaded guilty to murder at the High Court in Glasgow on Friday and will be sentenced next month.
Family pays tribute to ‘kind and gentle’ grandad
Mr Lynch’s family said they were “devastated” by his death and paid tribute to his “kind and gentle” nature. They said he was a devoted father to his three daughters and a loving grandfather to his seven grandchildren.
In a statement, they said: “He was always there for us, no matter what. He was the best grandad in the world and loved spending time with his grandchildren. He was always making them laugh and spoiling them with treats. He was the heart and soul of our family and we miss him every day.”
They added: “We are relieved that John Cameron has admitted his guilt and spared us the ordeal of a trial. We hope that he will face the full consequences of his actions and that justice will be done for our dad.”
Killer had previous convictions for assault and robbery
The court heard that Cameron had a criminal record dating back to 1991, including convictions for assault, robbery and drug offences. He had been released from prison in 2019 after serving a six-year sentence for assaulting a man with a hammer.
On the day of the murder, he had visited Mr Lynch’s flat and asked to borrow some money. Mr Lynch gave him £20 and told him to pay him back later. Cameron then left and returned with a knife, which he used to stab Mr Lynch repeatedly.
Cameron then fled the scene, leaving behind a trail of blood and DNA evidence. He also dropped his mobile phone, which contained incriminating messages and photos. He was identified by CCTV footage and arrested by police on March 19.
Judge Lord Mulholland told Cameron that he had committed a “brutal and senseless” murder and that he would face a lengthy prison term. He said: “You stabbed a 68-year-old man 15 times in his own home. You have robbed him of his life and his family of a loved one. You have shown no remorse for what you have done.”
He deferred sentencing until April 23 and ordered a background report on Cameron. He also praised the police for their “excellent” investigation and the family for their “dignity” throughout the case.
