In a tragic case that has shocked the community, Walter Buchanan, aged 66, is facing charges of murder following the death of his wife, 37-year-old Darrel Buchanan.
The incident occurred at their home in Hamilton on February 18, 2023, and the trial has now begun to unravel the details surrounding her death.
The 999 Call and Buchanan’s Account of Events
On the morning of his wife’s death, Walter Buchanan made a distressing call to emergency services, claiming he woke up to find her “cold to the touch.”
He explained that she had been drinking heavily the night before, and he wasn’t sure what had happened.
During the 999 call, Buchanan said: “I don’t know if she choked or something like that,” before adding that he had attempted mouth-to-mouth resuscitation, but was unable to wake her.
Despite his efforts, paramedics who arrived at the scene were unable to revive Darrel Buchanan.
She was pronounced dead at 7:45 am that morning.
Allegations Against Buchanan: Domestic Abuse and Murder
Buchanan is not only charged with murder but also faces a separate charge under the Domestic Abuse Act.
Prosecutors claim that he had a pattern of controlling behavior, isolating his wife from others, and physically restraining her.
They allege that Buchanan struck her on the head, then choked her by compressing her neck and covering her nose and mouth.
Buchanan has denied all charges against him.
Paramedics’ Testimony and Evidence at the Scene
Paramedic Rebecca McLaughlin testified in court that when she arrived at the Buchanan home, Mrs. Buchanan had no pulse.
She described how Walter Buchanan told her that his wife had been upset and had been drinking the night before.
He also mentioned that she had been repeatedly going to the bathroom, and at one point had fallen into a plant pot in the bedroom, which led to soil being found on the wall.
Another ambulance technician, Megan Muirhead, noted a dark mark on Darrel’s forehead and neck, along with blood on her right ear.
This evidence will play a critical role in the trial as it unfolds.
What Happens Next?
As the trial continues, the details surrounding the tragic death of Darrel Buchanan will be further examined.
The jury in Glasgow is set to hear more testimonies in the coming days, while Walter Buchanan maintains his innocence.
The case is a painful reminder of the complexities that can lie behind domestic violence cases.