Man jailed for single punch killing of dad-of-seven in Aberdeen
Derek Pearson attacked Steven Johnson after the 50-year-old tried to break up an argument between him and his then-partner in 2023
Last updated 11th Apr 2025
A man who killed a father-of-seven in an unprovoked attack in Aberdeen will spend at least seven years behind bars.
Derek Pearson punched Steven Johnson in the city’s Carmelite Lane after leaving a nearby pub on 12 March 2023, causing the 50-year-old to fall and hit his head on a parked car and then the road.
Mr Johnson was taken to Aberdeen Royal Infirmary but died two days later from his injuries.
Victim died after single punch following confrontation
47-year-old Pearson’s trial heard the men had gotten into a confrontation after Mr Johnson stepped in to try and diffuse an argument between Pearson and his then-partner.
Pearson, from Aberdeen, was also found guilty of assaulting his former partner during the incident.
On 11 April 2025, Pearson was jailed for seven years for culpable homicide.
A Non-Harassment Order, banning him from contacting or attempting to contact his former partner, was also granted for an indefinite period.
Moira Orr, who leads on homicide and major crime for the Crown Office and Procurator Fiscal Service, said:
Steven Johnson died just a day after his 50th birthday
“This case shows the devastating consequences that can arise from a single punch.
“Steven Johnson tragically died the day after his 50th birthday and many other lives have been changed forever because of Derek Pearson’s violent actions.
“There was evidence which showed that Mr Johnson was simply trying to diffuse rising tensions that night.
“Pearson could have walked away but instead chose to take part in this senseless act of violence, for which he has now been held accountable.
“Our prosecutors will continue to take action against those responsible for this type of offending as we strive to keep the communities we serve safe.”