SCOTLAND – A trial has been set for 40-year-old Aren Bylot Pearson who is accused of killing Claire Leveque of Westlock, Alta.
The trial is scheduled to start Oct. 6, 2025, in Edinburgh, according to court documents obtained by Town and Country Today.
A preliminary hearing for Pearson was held on Dec. 6 in Glasgow High Court. Court records show he is charged with murder, attempt to defeat the ends of justice, assault, and four counts of threatening or abusive behaviour.
Local media in Scotland reported the crime is alleged to have occurred in a garage that is linked to the property. They said that the murder charge alleges Pearson repeatedly struck 24-year-old Leveque on the head, neck and body with a knife or knives, compressed her neck and submerged her head and body in water. In addition, she is said to have suffered blunt force trauma by means unknown.
They also reported it’s claimed that after Pearson killed Leveque he sent messages to her father Clint Leveque and another man saying that he was giving her cash and a plane ticket back to Canada. Pearson also drove his vehicle into the sea and injured himself in front of his mother.
One of Pearson’s charges alleges that he was repeatedly threatening and abusive to Leveque between Oct. 21, 2023, and the day of her murder on Feb. 11, 2024.
In an email, Scotland Police said officers were called to the Sandness area of the Shetland Islands around 4:55 p.m. on Sunday, Feb. 11 for a report of a disturbance at a property. Leveque was pronounced dead at the scene and Pearson, then 39, was arrested.
A spokesperson from the Leveque family said they are following the legal developments in Scotland closely and remain fully committed to supporting the ongoing investigation and legal efforts.
“We are grateful for the global cooperation that has brought us closer to justice,” said spokesperson for the family, Lauren C., who didn't want her last name used. “At just 24 years old, Claire was a bright light whose legacy will never be forgotten. Her tragic story underscores the urgent need to address intimate partner violence, a global epidemic affecting 30 per cent of women, according to the World Health Organization. This must change. As a global community, we must do better.”
In Claire’s memory, her family is advocating for Keira’s Law, which seeks to educate judges on domestic violence and coercive control, said Lauren.
“Currently we are working to expand the law into Manitoba and welcome global support. We also stand behind the UK’s Clare’s Law and its efforts to protect women.”
A GoFundMe remains open to support Claire’s father and brother during this incredibly difficult time, said Lauren.
“Clint isn’t at all able to work right now so anything we receive will go towards helping them with trauma therapy, interim expenses and future travel.”
To contribute please go to https://www.gofundme.com/f/claire-leveque
