Man jailed for killing father-of-seven during unprovoked attack

Derek Pearson was found guilty of culpable homicide on 3 March 2025 following a trial at the High Court in Aberdeen.

The 47-year-old violently assaulted Steven Johnson in the city’s Carmelite Lane shortly after leaving a nearby pub on 12 March 2023. Pearson punched the 50-year-old victim, causing him to fall and hit his head off a parked car and the road.

Mr Johnson was taken to Aberdeen Royal Infirmary but died two days later from the injuries sustained during the attack. The court heard how the altercation took place after the victim tried to diffuse an argument between Pearson and his then partner.

Pearson, from Aberdeen, was also found guilty of assaulting his former partner during the same incident. On 11 April 2025, Pearson was jailed for seven years at the same court.

A non-harassment order, banning him from contacting or attempting to contact his former partner, was also granted for an indefinite period.

Moira Orr, who leads on homicide and major crime for the Crown Office, said: “This case shows the devastating consequences that can arise from a single punch.

“Steven Johnson tragically died the day after his 50th birthday and many other lives have been changed forever because of Derek Pearson’s violent actions. There was evidence which showed that Mr Johnson was simply trying to diffuse rising tensions that night.

“Pearson could have walked away but instead chose to take part in this senseless act of violence, for which he has now been held accountable. Our prosecutors will continue to take action against those responsible for this type of offending as we strive to keep the communities we serve safe.”