A forensic scientist has told a court how a ‘pool of blood’ ran from the body of a woman who was allegedly murdered.
Esther Combe, 36, told a jury on Friday that she attended the Inverness house where the body of Elizabeth MacKay, also known as Liz Muir, was discovered last year.
The High Court in Edinburgh heard how the Scottish Police Authority employee attended the Kintail Court property in April 2016.
The court heard how she went there to assist the police with their inquiry and help gather evidence.
Describing the scene to prosecution lawyer David Taylor, Ms Combe said Ms MacKay’s body was lying on a floor.
She added: “The pool of blood ran along the floor towards the door.”
Earlier in the week, the court heard how Taylor was “quite agitated” during a bus journey around the time of Ms MacKay’s death.
A fingerprint expert also previously told the court how the murder accused’s palm print was found in blood which had been recovered from the crime scene.
Prosecutors allege that between March 28 and March 31 last year, Mr Taylor assaulted Ms MacKay by seizing hold of her body and her hair at a house in the city’s Kintail Court.
It is claimed that Mr Taylor repeatedly punched her on the head and caused her to fall to the ground.
The Crown alleges that Mr Taylor then repeatedly struck Ms MacKay on the head and body with a “blunt” object before removing her clothing and handling her breasts.
Prosecutors also allege that Mr Taylor bit her breast and that he “did murder her.”
The second charge alleges that at the same address on the same dates, Mr Taylor searched through a handbag before stealing groceries, pots, cutlery and keys.
Mr Taylor, who is represented by advocate Shelagh McCall QC, has pleaded not guilty to the charges.
Solicitor advocate David Taylor is presenting the crown case to jurors.
The trial, which is being heard before judge Michael O’Grady QC, continues.
