Ayrshire pensioner admits killing husband of 50 years

A former councillor killed her sick husband of 50 years after believing he wanted her to help him die.

Published 6th Jun 2017

A former councillor killed her sick husband of 50 years after believing he wanted her to help him die.

Susanne Wilson smothered 70 year-old Henry with a cushion at their home in Ayr, South Ayrshire last September.

The retired nurse had been carer for her housebound husband who suffered from chronic heart disease.

But, a judge heard how the 72 year-old had also been struggling to come to terms with sex abuse allegations against Mr Wilson.

It was shortly after Mr Wilson spoke to one of his accusers – and with his health failing – his wife took his life.

The sad events emerged today as the OAP, who’d been a Labour councillor in Troon in the late 90s. appeared at the High Court in Glasgow.

Wilson – who had once faced a murder accusation – admitted to a culpable homicide charge.

Prosecutors accepted the plea on the basis of her “diminished responsibility” at the time due to the strain she was under.

Judge Lady Rae – who described the case as “difficult and very unusual” - continued her bail meantime.

Wilson, also of Ayr, will learn her fate next month.