A man has been found guilty of murdering Canadian national Claire Leveque in one of the most shocking cases to have gripped Shetland in recent years.
Aren Pearson, 41, was convicted at the High Court in Edinburgh on Wednesday, 15 October 2025, of killing the 24‑year‑old at a property in the Sandness area of Shetland on 11 February 2024.
Emergency services were called to the home after Ms Leveque was discovered with serious injuries in a hot tub during the afternoon, but she was pronounced dead at the scene.
In the short period before police arrived, Pearson had driven to nearby Melby Pier, where he deliberately plunged his car into the sea before returning to the property, where officers arrested him.
Detective Inspector Richard Baird said:
“The level of violence Aren Pearson inflicted is truly horrifying.
“Our investigation uncovered evidence of a controlling and violent relationship in which Pearson sought to degrade and abuse Claire Leveque prior to her death.
“These actions, and his behaviour afterwards, show him to be a cruel and selfish individual.
“It is right that he now faces the consequences of what he has done.
“Today’s verdict cannot change what happened, but I hope it brings some degree of closure to Claire’s family.”
Chief Inspector Chris Sewell, Shetland area commander, said the incident had “a wide impact across the local community”.
“This was a harrowing case,” he said.
“Many people’s thoughts across Shetland will be with Claire Leveque’s family and friends today.
“Thankfully, crimes of this nature are extremely rare here.
“We will continue to work with partners to support the community and to tackle violence against women and girls, ensuring Shetland remains a safe place for everyone.”
Pearson will be sentenced at a later date.
