CROSSBOW KILLER ORDERED TO STAY IN HOSPITAL AFTER MUM'S FATAL ATTACK
Daniel Parker, a man who used a crossbow to attack and fatally injure his mother, Margaret Parker, a 78-year-old woman, has been ordered to remain in hospital indefinitely.The attack happened at their home in Fernieside Crescent, Edinburgh, on May 21, 2024, where Parker shot his mother in the torso with a crossbow and also inflicted multiple stab wounds.
He also fired at his sister, Deborah McGlashan, who escaped with only a minor chest injury, and he shot at a neighbor, Sarah Manifold.
Parker’s actions were influenced by his mental state; he claimed the 'devil' made him commit the attack and expressed delusional beliefs, including that his family had betrayed him and that his life was akin to a fictional TV show, The Truman Show.
He had a history of mental disorder and had previously faced charges of murder and firearms possession, but was acquitted due to mental health issues at the time.
During the court proceedings, it was revealed that Parker's mental health had significantly deteriorated after moving in with his mother in February 2023, and he refused medication, believing in conspiracy theories.
The court heard evidence from a psychiatrist who stated it was appropriate to impose compulsions and restrictions, including hospitalization at Carstairs.
Parker appeared in person at the High Court in Glasgow and admitted to the police that he committed the attack because of the devil.
The judge imposed a restriction order for him to stay at the state hospital without a set end date and a non-harassment order banning contact with his sister indefinitely, recognizing the horrific impact on the family.
