The heartbroken friend of a Perth dad who was allegedly murdered says he was “like a brother” to him.
Stephen Speedie, 29, was found dead on a rural road between Dunning and Path of Condie on Friday morning.
A man has appeared in court accused of murdering the father-of-one.
Police have also been carrying out activity at a house in Blackford and at the Mercure Hotel in Perth as part of their investigation.
Taylor Harrison, from Perth, told The Courier that he “hit the floor crying” when he learned Stephen – also known as ‘Speedie’ – had died.
‘He was like a brother, he was part of the family’
The 25-year-old said: “He was my best friend, he meant so much to me and was like a brother, he was part of the family.
“Speedie was a really kind and caring guy who always stood by me, he was a great laugh and had no hate for anybody.
“It’s heartbreaking, he didn’t deserve what happened to him.”
Taylor played football with Stephen at a Saints in the Community adult football team.
He added: “Speedie was always there for me, giving me advice and making me see the positive side of things, and vice versa, we were always there for each other.
“The last few days have been very hard – coming to terms with the fact I’ve lost him – but he will always be watching over us.
“Rest easy, Speedie. I appreciate everything you did for me and I will always remember that.”
Taylor says Stephen was always there to help out his mum and would stay at their home in Letham often.
Taylor’s mum, Tricia Harrison, said: “Stephen didn’t deserve this at all.
‘A big softie with a massive heart’
“He was a big softie with a massive heart who would have done anything for anybody.
“Stephen loved his football – he was a big Celtic fan – and he was always brilliant with Taylor, they were like brothers.
“He was in our house all the time, he was here on Wednesday and the next thing we knew, he was gone.”
Tricia, 50, added: “His daughter was a lovely wee girl who’s had her dad taken away far too soon.
“Rest in peace, Stephen. You won’t be forgotten.”
Tributes have also flooded in for Stephen on social media.
Stephen’s stepdad, Dougie Bryce, has launched an online fundraising page to help pay for his funeral.
Man in court accused of murdering Perth dad
A man appeared at Perth Sheriff Court accused of murdering Stephen on Monday.
John Higgins faces allegations he attacked Stephen with a knife on the Path of Condie road.
Higgins made no plea and was remanded in custody.
A 40-year-old woman and a 36-year-old man were also arrested, but both were released pending further inquiries.
