Inquiry evidence over tortured man falling to death ends

Evidence in a fatal accident inquiry into the death of a man who plunged to his death from an Aberdeen high-rise has now concluded.

Jamie Forbes, who was 37, was held against his will at a flat in Elphinstone Court in Aberdeen for two days in January 2024.

Screams for help had been heard but police were unable to find where they were coming from. Forbes was then seen falling from a 12th-floor window.

The inquiry began on Tuesday, and after three days of evidence concluded, it was adjourned until August for closing submissions.

Lee Smith, 37, was jailed for eight years in December 2024 after admitting culpable homicide in relation to the case.

At the High Court in Edinburgh, Lady Hood heard the abuse inflicted on Forbes was so bad that he had no other option but to jump from the window.

Police later discovered the lock of the flat's door had been tampered with, meaning the window was the only route of escape.

Officers had found Smith washing up in the kitchen, and bloodstains throughout the flat.

He had repeatedly hit his victim with a hammer, and punched and kicked him during the attack.

The FAI had heard a post mortem examination revealed multiple internal injuries as a result of the fall from height.

There were also sharp force injuries to his hands which were described as "classic defence-type injuries".

The inquiry was held in the civil annexe of Aberdeen Sheriff Court.

At the close of evidence, Sheriff Principal Andrew Miller adjourned the inquiry until 7 August for closing submissions.