A MURDER accused has appeared in court charged with killing Johnstone man Steven Quail by stabbing him 29 times after breaking into his home.

Darren O’Neill, 33, is now behind bars after being charged over Mr Quail’s death in Greenend Avenue more than two weeks ago.

Mr Quail’s lifeless body was found in his flat on the morning of Saturday, February 25.

Police launched a murder investigation and appealed to the public for information.

During the probe, suspicion fell on Mr O’Neill and he was arrested last Friday, before being interviewed and held at Helen Street Police Office, in the Govan area of Glasgow.

He appeared in private at Paisley Sheriff Court on Monday, where he made no plea to a charge of murder.

Sheriff Kevin Duffy refused to release Mr O’Neill on bail. Instead, he remanded him in custody and continued the case for prosecutors to investigate further.

No future court dates have been set but Mr O’Neill is expected to appear in the dock again next week.

Police have carried out extensive inquiries into Mr Quail’s death since his body was found 18 days ago.

Forensic officers spent days at the death scene, with colleagues carrying out door-to-door enquiries.

Detectives also reviewed footage from CCTV cameras covering the area.

As part of the investigation, police also asked any motorists who have dashcams fitted in their vehicles and were in the area at the time to get in touch.

Johnstone-based councillor Christopher Gilmour told how the community had been left “in shock” over Mr Quail’s death.

And loved ones paid tribute to Mr Quail on social media.

Laura McLaren posted this message on Facebook: “He would literally walk miles to help you and was a gentle soul.”

Donna Scott Oliver added: “RIP our dear friend Steven Quail.

“You may be gone but you will never, ever be forgotten by us.

“Will always love you.”