Man left brain damaged after attempted murder attack in Clydebank flat

John McNamara stamped and jumped on James Donaldson at the victim's flat in Clydebank.

The 14 year old was taken to hospital in Glasgow with serious injuries
Published 30th Jan 2020
Last updated 30th Jan 2020

A THUG left a man needing round-the-clock care after a brutal murder bid.

John McNamara stamped and jumped on James Donaldson at the victim's flat in Clydebank, West Dunbartonshire.

The 47 year-old decorator struck last October after an apparent row between the pair.

A judge heard McNamara had previously been someone who “helped” Mr Donaldson.

McNamara now faces a lengthy jail-term after he pled guilty today/yesterday to an attempted murder charge.

It emerged Mr Donaldson was left badly brain damaged following the attack.

Prosecutor Owen Mullan told the High Court in Glasgow: “It is likely that he will require care for the rest of his life.

“He requires constant care with all aspects of daily life.”

McNamara's advocate Jennifer Bain said he was “shocked” at how he reacted that day.

The lawyer added: “It had been mentioned how he may be suffering from Post Traumatic Stress Disorder in particular from witnessing the murder of a friend in 2017.

“He is anxious there is something there that has not been properly investigated.”

Miss Bain also told the court there had “not been a friendly background” between McNamara and Mr Donaldson prior to the incident.

Lord Burns remanded McNamara, also of Clydebank, in custody.

Sentencing was deferred until February 27 in Edinburgh for reports.

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