Man in court charged with murder of scientist in Dundee
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Dr Fortune Gomo, a Zimbabwean scientist, was tragically killed in Dundee. She had recently joined Scottish Water and was remembered as brilliant, kind, and humble.
Man in Court for Murder of Zimbabwean Scientist Dr Fortune Gomo in Dundee
39-year-old PhD graduate remembered as a brilliant academic and beloved sister as tributes pour in
Dundee, Scotland – A 20-year-old man has appeared in Dundee Sheriff Court charged with the murder of Dr Fortune Gomo, a respected scientist originally from Mutare, Zimbabwe, who was found fatally injured on South Road in the city’s Lochee area on Saturday afternoon.
Kyler Rattray, of Dundee, made no plea during a private court appearance and was remanded in custody. Police say he was arrested shortly after the incident and that no wider threat exists to the public.
Dr Gomo, 39, was treated at the scene by paramedics but died from stab wounds, according to a statement by the Zimbabwean embassy, which has sent a team to Dundee to assist her family and engage with Scottish authorities.
Her tragic death has sent shockwaves through both the Dundee community and the Zimbabwean diaspora, with many describing her as an “exceptional scientist,” mentor, and “deputy parent” to her siblings.
“We were just talking about her 40th birthday party,” her brother Regis Nyatsanza said from Harare. “She said she had achieved most of what she wanted. She was going to have a quiet celebration.”
“Her life mattered”
Dr Gomo had studied in the Netherlands before moving to the UK, where she spent a decade in academic and water-related research. She recently began working as a senior resource planner at Scottish Water.
“Fortune was an exceptional scientist… already a highly valued member of our team,” said Simon Parsons, director of environment planning at Scottish Water.
Friends and colleagues have shared emotional tributes. Angela Machonesa, who attended school and university with Dr Gomo in Zimbabwe, wrote:
“Her brilliance in the classroom was only matched by her emotional intelligence… We are heartbroken. Her legacy must never be forgotten.”
Floral tributes and community donations are being made in Dundee to support Dr Gomo’s family. A message left at the scene read: “We’re utterly shocked this has happened in our community. May the angels watch over you.”
Community Response and Police Appeal
Police Scotland acknowledged the public shock and has met with representatives of the local black community to offer reassurance.
In a statement, police warned against speculation and misinformation on social media and said Dr Gomo’s family is being supported by specialist officers.
“This was a deeply distressing incident, and our inquiries are continuing,” said Detective Superintendent Peter Sharp.
Anyone with information is urged to contact Police Scotland.
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