A fourth man has been charged in connection with the death of Billy Watson, a 35-year-old man who was fatally injured in Armadale, West Lothian, earlier this month.
The latest development was confirmed by Police Scotland after a 20-year-old man was arrested on Tuesday, September 22, as detectives continued investigating Watson’s death.
Police were called to Harestanes Road in Armadale at around 11:50 a.m. on Saturday, September 12, following reports that a 35-year-old man had been seriously injured inside a property. Watson was pronounced dead at the scene.
Fourth Suspect Charged
According to Police Scotland, the newly arrested suspect is a 20-year-old man who was subsequently charged in connection with Watson’s death.
He appeared at Livingston Sheriff Court on Wednesday, September 23. Reports from the court hearing said Josh McBride made no plea and was remanded in custody, with another court appearance expected within eight days.
Police Scotland had previously arrested and charged three other men in connection with the investigation.
Those suspects were identified in court reporting as Frank McCarthy, 57, Martin Patterson, 44, and Corrie McQueen, 29. The men have faced charges including murder and attempting to defeat the ends of justice.
Billy Watson Case at a Glance
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Victim | Billy Watson |
| Age | 35 |
| Location | Harestanes Road, Armadale, West Lothian |
| Date of death | September 12, 2026 |
| Latest development | Fourth man charged |
| Latest suspect | Josh McBride, 20 |
| Court | Livingston Sheriff Court |
| Investigation | Police Scotland |
Police Describe Death as a Targeted Attack
Police Scotland previously said they were treating Watson’s killing as a targeted attack.
Earlier reporting also stated that Watson suffered fatal injuries consistent with being shot with a firearm. However, investigators have continued to examine the circumstances surrounding the killing and why Watson was targeted.
The investigation has been conducted under Operation Curlew, with detectives appealing to anyone who may have information about the circumstances surrounding Watson’s death to come forward.
Family Remembers Billy Watson
Following his death, Watson’s family released a statement through Police Scotland describing him as a deeply loved son, father, brother, uncle and friend.
The family also appealed for information that could help investigators establish what happened and provide answers surrounding his death.
The continuing arrests and court proceedings indicate that detectives are still working to establish the full circumstances of the incident.
What Happens Next?
With four men now charged in connection with the case, the investigation and associated court proceedings are continuing.
The charges are allegations at this stage, and the accused men remain entitled to the presumption of innocence unless and until proven guilty through the legal process.
Disclaimer
This article is based on information released by Police Scotland and reports from established news outlets. Details may change as the investigation and court proceedings continue. Charges are allegations and should not be treated as proof of guilt.
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