Friends and neighbours have paid tribute to a “lovely, friendly woman” who was found dead in a home in Edinburgh.
Margaret Parker, 78, was found dead in Moredun last Tuesday. On Thursday, Daniel Parker, 36, appeared in court charged with her murder. He is also accused of attempting to murder two other women, aged 42 and 55, during the same incident.
Parker made no plea during a private hearing at the city’s sheriff court.
Emergency services were called to the home on Tuesday morning. Margaret was pronounced dead at the scene while the two other women did not require medical treatment.
One of Parker’s neighbours told the Daily Record: “Mags was a lovely, friendly woman and would always stop to say hello. She was very close with her family and spent a lot of time with them.
“She was known for dyeing her hair different colours. We would always admire her. I saw her a few days ago. It’s so sad. It’s not something that you think would happen here.”
Another neighbour said: “Mags had lived here for 40 years. She was a quiet lady and kept to herself but she would chat away if you saw her on the street. She always looked pristine, and she was always baking something. She was a great person, so down to earth.”
A local shopkeeper added: “I am shocked by the news. Margaret was a quiet, lovely woman. She made time for everyone. She was always well put together and a lovely person.”
Det Insp Dougal Begg, said: “Our thoughts are with the family and friends of Margaret Parker and everyone affected by this tragic incident. A continued police presence can be seen in the area as officers continue their inquiries into this isolated incident.”