John Blyth sentenced to life imprisonment for Edinburgh death

A 47-year-old man has been jailed for life in connection with the death of Paul Smith, who died following a serious assault in the Craigmillar Court area of Edinburgh in January 2021.

Paul Smith was conveyed to the Royal Infirmary of Edinburgh, around 2.20am on Wednesday, 6 January, 2021, where he subsequently died on Sunday, 10 January, 2021.

John Blyth was found guilty of murder at the High Court in Edinburgh on Friday, 15 March, 2024. At the High Court in Glasgow today (Friday, 12 April, 2024), he was sentenced to life imprisonment, with a minimum of 13 years.

Detective Inspector Keith Taylor said: “This was a brutal, senseless attack and John Blyth will now face the consequences of his actions.

“Whilst this sentencing cannot change what John Blyth did to Paul, I hope that it brings some kind of closure for Paul’s family and friends.

“I would also like to thank Paul’s family for their support throughout the investigation, as well as commend them for their strength and dignity throughout this ordeal.”