The attacks sent shockwaves through the west Highlands, where incidents of extreme violence are rare.

The Reverend Gordon Matheson, who was a local Free Church pastor, had known MacDonald because their children were about the same age.

“I got to know him on the school run and at football training,” he said.

“Across the community there’s a feeling of betrayal – this is one of ours who killed another one of ours.”

Skye and Raasay councillor John Finlayson said: “I don’t think we should underestimate the impact it had on so many people.

“Not just those directly affected by the incident, but also the wider community.

“The communities affected probably still bear the scars and the healing process is still ongoing.”

He added: “I am sure people will continually need support.

“There is closure for some, but for some people that might never happen.”

Share.
Exit mobile version