An alleged drink driver has appeared in court charged with causing a man’s death in a road crash.
Graeme McKenzie, of Rothes, died after the car he was travelling in was involved in a smash on the A941 Craigellachie to Elgin road last month.
The 37-year-old was travelling in a black Audi S3 when the tragedy happened a short distance away from his home.
Murray Geddes, 37, appeared at Elgin Sheriff Court facing a charge of death by dangerous driving on Thursday.
He is further accused of driving or attempting to drive a vehicle while over the drink drive limit.
Geddes, of Aberlour, made no plea or declaration during the private petition hearing and the case was continued for further examination.
He was bailed and is expected to appear in court again at a later stage.
Mr McKenzie’s family paid tribute to the “cheery” offshore worker shortly after he died on May 16 this year.
His mother Kate McKenzie described him as a well-known man who was devoted to his family and his two dogs.
The former Speyside High School pupil had worked away from home, previously taking up employment in Belfast and London.
She said at the time: “He loved the offshore work and the camaraderie and banter with his ‘offshore family’.”
Mr McKenzie is survived by his parents Kate and Neil McKenzie, his long term partner Sharyn McBay and their children Max, 12, and Hayleigh, 16.