Man arrested in connection with death of West Lothian dad after 'targeted' attack in Armadale
Billy Watson, 35, was found dead at the scene at a property on Harestanes Road in Armadale
A man has been arrested in connection with the death of a West Lothian dad following a “targeted” attack in Armadale.
Emergency services were called to the scene on Harestanes Road at around 11.50am on Saturday, September 12.
They had received a report of a man injured within the property. The 35-year-old victim, named locally as father-of-two Billy Watson, was pronounced dead at the scene.
Police previously said that Mr Watson’s death was being treated as “suspicious”, adding that their enquiries had indicated that the attack was “targeted”.
A 57-year-old man was arrested on Wednesday, September 16 in connection with the incident.
Police said that enquiries are ongoing, adding that Mr Watson’s family is being supported by specialist officers.
Officers are also keeping an open mind about whether a series of fires in the West Lothian town are linked to the incident. Emergency services were made aware of a car fire in the Netherhouses area around 12pm on Saturday afternoon, as well as a separate blaze at a derelict building - formerly The Sacred Heart & St Anthony church - on Wotherspoon Road a few hours later.
Detective Superintendent Michelle Findlay, of the Major Investigations Team, said: “My thoughts remain with the family and friends of the man who died. Specialist officers are supporting them as we continue to try to get answers about what happened.
“We’ve been carrying out extensive enquiries, including door-to-door in the area, CCTV review and forensic analysis.
“I’d like to thank the public for their support so far. I continue to ask anyone with information about the death, who witnessed anything in the area they believe may assist our investigation, or with CCTV, doorbell or dash-cam footage, and hasn’t already spoken to police, to come forward.”
Superintendent Jocelyn Thomas said: “We understand the local community is concerned by what has happened, however we believe this was a targeted attack.
“I want to reassure everyone, these incidents are rare. An increased police presence will remain in the area as we continue our enquiries and anyone with concerns can speak to these officers. Your information really can make a difference.”
Anyone with information can get in touch with the enquiry team directly using the Major Investigation Public Portal or you can pass information anonymously to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
Tributes were paid previously to Mr Watson. In a social media post, his daughter said: “Rest easy dad, you were beyond loved and you will always be loved, forever in our hearts.”
Others described him as a “diamond in the rough”, adding: “Keep dancing in the sky my friend, love you and will cherish our memories we made, love you Billy boy.”