Murder suspects in court over 'targeted' shooting of man in West Lothian

Two further suspects have appeared in court charged with murder after a man was shot dead in West Lothian.

Billy Watson, 35, was fatally injured within a property in Armadale's Harestanes Road at about 11.50am on 12 September.

Police Scotland said Mr Watson was pronounced dead at the scene.

Corrie McQueen, 29, and Martin Patterson, 44, were arrested and charged in connection with the case and appeared before Edinburgh Sheriff Court on Monday.

The two men made no plea to the two separate charges of murder and attempting to defeat the ends of justice.

The suspects, both of Armadale, were remanded in custody and are due back in the dock within the next eight days.

Co-accused Frank McCarthy, 57, appeared before Livingston Sheriff Court on Friday.

McCarthy, of Bathgate, made no plea to the same two charges.

He was also remanded in custody ahead of his next court appearance.

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Police Scotland earlier said they believed the murder to be a "targeted attack" and said Mr Watson "suffered fatal injuries consistent with being shot by a firearm".

Detective Superintendent Michelle Findlay previously 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."

Police Scotland has launched Operation Curlew and has set up an online portal for anyone with information to submit details directly to the inquiry team.

DS Findlay added: "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."

(c) Sky News 2026: Murder suspects in court over 'targeted' shooting of man in West Lothian