Man Fatally Stabs Best Mate in Chilling South Lanarkshire Attack
Dale Gardiner, 25, brutally stabbed William Wardrop, 23, after visiting his home in Larkhall, South Lanarkshire. Paramedics battled for 40 minutes to save William but he sadly died in hospital.
Killer Pleads Self-Defence but Court Rejects Claim
The deadly incident happened in the early hours of May 22, 2020. Gardiner claimed he acted in self-defence during the fracas. Prosecutors slammed this as an “unjustifiable” and “disproportionate response.”
Originally charged with murder, Gardiner was instead found guilty of culpable homicide due to provocation. Sentencing is set for next month.
Friends Turn Deadly After Gaming Night Turns Sour
The two men had been hanging out and playing video games at Gardiner’s former Riverside Road home in Glasgow. A third man at the scene described the atmosphere as “friendly enough” before things turned violent.
Despite the fight cooling down briefly, Gardiner stabbed William in the chest. The victim staggered away but collapsed moments later.
Gardiner Broke Down Crying Over His ‘Best Friend’
Gardiner was reportedly “hysterical” and crying after the attack, referring to William as his “best friend.” He reportedly said, “He ran at me, and I stabbed him,” followed by, “Is he all right, my pal Willie?”
Prosecutor Stewart Ronnie told the jury Gardiner “targeted William’s chest with a lethal weapon” and stressed, “his actions could not be considered proportionate.”
Lady Rae postponed sentencing to await further reports.
Tributes Flow for ‘Much-Loved’ Dad and Fiancé
At the time of the tragedy, William’s family issued a heartfelt statement via Police Scotland:
“William was a much-loved dad, brother, and fiancé who will be sadly missed by us all. He will live on in our hearts forever.”
