A TEENAGER has appeared in court accused of killing a dad-of-three.

James Crossan, 18, is charged with culpable homicide following the death of 33-year-old Johnny McEwan.

It is alleged that Crossan, of Rannoch Place, Paisley, attacked Mr McEwan in the town’s New Street in the early hours of Saturday, April 22.

Mr McEwan, who was originally from Barrhead but had been living in Paisley, was rushed to the Royal Alexandra Hospital, where he received treatment for a head injury and his condition was initially described as critical.

Police launched an investigation into the incident and, during the probe, suspicion fell on Crossan.

He was arrested and detained by police before appearing at Paisley Sheriff Court on April 24, charged with attempting to murder Mr McEwan.

Crossan made no plea to that charge and was remanded in custody, being sent to Polmont Young Offender Institution.

Mr McEwan died the next day, leading to prosecutors charging Crossan with a more serious offence.

Crossan appeared in court for the second time in connection with the case last Thursday, when he faced the charge of culpable homicide.

The charge against Crossan states: “You did assault Jonathan McEwan, repeatedly punch him on the head and body and you did kill him.”

Crossan was represented by defence solicitor Terry Gallanagh during the private hearing, where he made no plea to the single charge against him.

Sheriff Craig Harris continued the case for prosecutors to investigate further and released Crossan on bail, with a curfew condition in place that will see him have to remain within his home address between 7pm and 7am every day.

No future court dates for Crossan have been set.