Man, 57, charged in connection with fatal West Lothian shooting
The man will appear in Livingston Sheriff Court on Friday
A 57-year-old man has been charged in connection with the death of a West Lothian dad which police have described as a “targeted” attack.
Detectives investigating the shooting are treating the attack on dad-of-two Billy Watson on Saturday, September 12 as murder following a post-mortem.
Mr Watson was pronounced dead at a property on Harestanes Road in Armadale after emergency services were called to the scene at around 11.50am.
A 57-year-old man was arrested on Wednesday and is due to appear at Livingston Sheriff Court on Friday, 18 September.
Police announced on Wednesday evening that they are tracing four men seen in the area at the time of the fatal firearms incident.
They are also keen to trace the movements of two vehicles seen in the vicinity of Harestanes Road around the time of Mr Watson‘s death.
Forensic analysis is currently underway on a blue BMW car and black Vauxhall Mokka that were later recovered. Those with doorbell cams, dash cams and any other CCTV footage in the local area are being asked to review footage.
Detective Superintendent Michelle Findlay said: “We are continuing to offer Billy’s family support as the investigation progresses. They are understandably shocked and devastated by what has happened. It’s imperative to establish why he was killed and get answers for his family and friends.
“I’m keen to hear from anyone who may have information regarding the events in Harestanes Road. Of particular interest to us is any information on the BMW and Mokka cars or the four men.
“Please don’t assume we know the information and no matter how insignificant you think it is, please let us be the judge and pass the information on.”
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 that these incidents are rare.
“Let me be clear, the use of firearms will not be tolerated. We work tirelessly every day to disrupt the activities of those involved in this type of criminality.”
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.
In the aftermath of his death, many paid tribute to Mr Watson, who was described as “a diamond in the rough”.
In a comment on social media, his daughter said: “Rest easy dad, you were beyond loved and you will always be loved, forever in our hearts.”
Locals were quick to send their condolences, with one commenter saying they had “always seen him about with a smile” and another calling him “a young life taken far too soon”.
Another person added: “Canny believe it or get that big smile of yours out of my head cracking jokes and winding me up.
“Keep dancing in the sky my friend, love you and will cherish our memories we made, love you Billy boy.”