KILLER DEAD
Edinburgh man who brutally murdered neighbour in crazed knife attack dies in Shotts Prison
by David IrvineAN EDINBURGH man who brutally murdered his neighbour in a crazed knife attack has died behind bars.
Rene Howieson, 39, stabbed neighbour Colin Skilbeck, 41, just weeks after getting married in 2017.
Howieson and wife Kathleen Downey inflicted nine knife wounds on their neighbour, with one penetrating his heart after throwing boiling water on him.
Advocate depute Steven Borthwick said at the time: “Downey threw the pan of sugar and water into his face. Howieson struck him repeatedly to the body with the knife.
“At some point Downey was handed the knife and also struck the deceased with it.”
Thug Howieson admitted the murder in court and was ordered to serve a minimum of at least 14 years in prison.
Wife Kathleen was jailed after admitting culpable homicide.
Prison bosses confirmed Howieson died at Shotts Prison last week.
But it's understood the death is not linked to coronavirus.
A Scottish Prison Service statement read: "Police Scotland have been advised and the matter reported to the Procurator Fiscal.
"A Fatal Accident Inquiry will be held in due course."
At the time, Detective Inspector Susan Balfour said of the crime: “It was a shockingly brutal attack.
"I hope this helps provide Colin’s family with some sense of justice.”