Police continue to investigate the fatal Armadale shooting that claimed the life of 35-year-old William “Billy” Watson earlier this month in West Lothian, Scotland.
Watson was found fatally injured inside a property on Harestanes Road, Armadale, shortly before noon on Saturday, September 12, 2026.
Emergency services attended the scene, but Watson was pronounced dead at the property.
Police Scotland later confirmed that a post-mortem examination established that he suffered fatal injuries consistent with being shot by a firearm.
What Happened in Armadale?
Police were called to Harestanes Road at approximately 11:50 a.m. on September 12 following a report that a man had been injured inside a property.
Emergency responders found Watson at the scene.
He was pronounced dead, and a major investigation was subsequently launched.
Following the post-mortem examination, Police Scotland confirmed that the death was being treated as murder.
Police Describe Shooting as Targeted
Investigators have described the shooting as a targeted attack.
Police have continued to appeal for information that could help establish exactly what happened and why Watson was killed.
Authorities have also maintained an increased police presence in the area while detectives conduct their investigation.
The targeted-attack assessment does not mean investigators have publicly established the motive.
Billy Watson Identified as Victim
Police Scotland identified the victim as William “Billy” Watson, a 35-year-old man from the local area.
His family described him as a deeply loved son, father, brother, uncle and friend.
The family has appealed for anyone with information about the circumstances surrounding his death to come forward.
Four Men Charged
The investigation has resulted in charges against four men.
Frank McCarthy, 57, Corrie McQueen, 29, and Martin Patterson, 44, were previously arrested and charged in connection with Watson’s death.
A fourth man, aged 20, was subsequently arrested and charged.
McQueen and Patterson appeared at Livingston Sheriff Court and made no plea to charges including murder and attempting to defeat the ends of justice. They were remanded in custody.
McCarthy also appeared in court and made no plea.
The latest court proceedings form part of the ongoing criminal process, and the charges remain allegations unless proven in court.
Police Investigate Vehicles and CCTV
Detectives have been examining the movements of vehicles believed to be relevant to the investigation.
Police previously appealed for information concerning a blue BMW and a black Vauxhall Mokka seen on Harestanes Road around the time of the shooting.
Both vehicles were recovered and subjected to forensic examination.
Investigators have also asked residents to review doorbell, CCTV and dashcam footage that may have captured the vehicles or people in the area.
Community Concern in Armadale
The shooting has caused concern in the Armadale community, particularly because it occurred in a residential area.
Police have said they believe the incident was targeted and have reassured the wider community that such firearm incidents are rare.
An increased police presence has remained in the area while enquiries continue.
Investigation Remains Ongoing
Operation Curlew is being used in connection with the investigation.
Detectives continue to establish the circumstances surrounding Watson’s death, including the events immediately before and after the shooting.
Police have urged anyone with potentially relevant information not to assume investigators already know it.
Even seemingly minor information could assist the investigation.
Armadale Shooting: Details at a Glance
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Location | Harestanes Road, Armadale, West Lothian, Scotland |
| Incident date | September 12, 2026 |
| Approximate time | 11:50 a.m. |
| Victim | William “Billy” Watson |
| Age | 35 |
| Cause of fatal injuries | Injuries consistent with being shot by a firearm |
| Police classification | Murder |
| Police assessment | Targeted attack |
| Suspects charged | Four men |
| Investigation | Operation Curlew |
| Vehicles of interest | Blue BMW and black Vauxhall Mokka |
| CCTV appeal | Yes |
| Current status | Investigation and court proceedings ongoing |
Billy Watson Remembered by Family
Watson’s family has remembered him as a deeply loved member of their family and community.
Their statement reflected the continuing impact of his death and their desire for answers about what happened on Harestanes Road.
As detectives continue their work and the accused men face court proceedings, the circumstances surrounding the fatal shooting remain the subject of an active investigation.
Anyone with information that could assist police is urged to contact investigators.
Disclaimer
This article concerns the September 12, 2026 fatal shooting in Armadale, West Lothian. The charges described remain allegations and have not been proven in court. Information may change as the investigation and court proceedings continue. Details about motive and other circumstances should not be treated as established unless confirmed by authorities or determined through the legal process.