Darren Murphy charged after death of John Morrison
A man has appeared in court charged with assaulting former councillor John Morrison who died at the weekend.
Darren Murphy is alleged to have punched Mr Morrison on the head to his severe injury at Dunlop Street, Glasgow, on 22 December.
The 25-year-old made no plea or declaration at Glasgow Sheriff Court and was released on bail.
Mr Morrison, 50, a former leader of East Dunbartonshire Council, died after he was found in Argyle Street at 00:20.
A post-mortem examination proved inconclusive and the exact cause of his death has yet to be established.
Police later said that the Glasgow City Council lawyer had been assaulted before his death.
Former Liberal Democrat councillor Mr Morrison lived in Milngavie, East Dunbartonshire.
He was the leader of East Dunbartonshire Council from 2003-2007.
Following his death, Lib Dem MP for the area, Jo Swinson, said: "This is shocking news and my heart goes out to John's partner, family and friends.
"John was a skilful debater and effective leader of East Dunbartonshire Council. He dedicated decades of his life to public service, both in elected politics and at Glasgow City Council. This is a tragic loss."
Former Lib Dem leader Charles Kennedy said: "This shockingly sad news sees the sudden passing of a great character and a memorable personality within the party.
"I first became friends with John at Glasgow University and was pleased when he succeeded me there as chairman of the Social Democrats in university union debating.
"He went on to make his mark both in the law and local government. It was a great pity that he was never able to deploy his talents at Holyrood."
Alistair Carmichael MP said: "John Morrison's sudden and tragic death has shocked all those who knew him.
"For me he was not just a political colleague but a close friend whom I had first met when we were both students at Glasgow University.
"My sadness today is lifted only by many happy memories I shall always have of the fun times we shared."
"My thoughts are with his partner David, his daughter Kirsty and the rest of his family."