A 46-year-old man has appeared in court charged with murder after the death of a “much-loved’” mother in Broxburn, West Lothian.
Kasikai Chinyanga was arrested in connection with the death of 42-year-old Chitsidzo (Veronica) Chinyanga, originally from Zimbabwe.
Police were called to a disturbance at a property on Cunnighar Road, Broxburn, at about 7.55pm on Sunday, and Veronica was taken to the Royal Infirmary of Edinburgh, where she died.
Chinyanga, of Newton, West Lothian, appeared on petition at Livingston sheriff court on Tuesday charged with murder.
He made no plea and the case against him was continued for further inquiries, with Sheriff Susan Craig remanding him in custody. He will make a second appearance in court for full committal within the next eight days.
In a statement released through Police Scotland, the dead woman’s family said: “Veronica was a much-loved mum, sister, niece and mother to all, who will be missed dearly by many. We would ask that we are given privacy to come to terms with our loss at this time.”
A fundraiser has been set up by friends to raise £5,000 in order to help her family in Zimbabwe travel to Scotland to say their “final goodbye”.
Describing her as a “beacon of joy and positivity”, the GoFundMe fundraiser says: “It is with heavy hearts that we share the tragic news of the passing of our beloved sister, affectionately known as Vee. Vic’s unexpected departure from this world has left us all in shock and deep sorrow, on 9 June, 2024.
“Vee was a beacon of joy and positivity, always radiating warmth and kindness to everyone she encountered. Her infectious laughter and boundless love for people touched the lives of many. The goal we have is to give Vee and her family in Zimbabwe the chance to pay their respects and say their final goodbye until we meet again.”
