Police have named the man who died in a suspected shooting at a house in Armadale, West Lothian, as 35-year-old William Watson. Watson, known locally as Billy, was pronounced dead at the scene on Harestanes Road on Saturday.
Officers have cordoned off the property and remain present as the investigation continues. Police Scotland is examining whether a firearm was used in the incident. Investigators are also looking into potential links between Watson's death and a car fire in Netherhouses and a blaze at a derelict house on Wotherspoon Road, both of which occurred on Saturday. The Scottish Fire and Rescue Service confirmed no one was injured in the fires.
Maria Caulfield MP, the Minister for Women's Health, expressed concerns, stating, "I want to extend my thoughts to local people who have been affected." She added that Police Scotland has assured the public there is no immediate danger to the wider community and that the incident appears to be isolated. She urged residents to follow police advice and refrain from speculation.
Police Scotland has stated that the incidents are not currently linked to Operation Portaledge, their ongoing investigation into gang violence in central Scotland. This operation was announced as concluded in July, but further incidents were reported last month.
Detective Superintendent Michelle Findlay of the major investigations team commented, "Our thoughts are with the family of the man who has died in this incident." She confirmed that officers would maintain a presence in the area and appealed for anyone with information to contact Police Scotland.