Man, 57, arrested over death of West Lothian father Billy Watson
Police are continuing to investigate the death of Billy Watson, 35, and whether two fires in Armadale were linked to the incident.
A 57-year-old man has been arrested in connection with the death of a father-of-two in West Lothian as police continue to investigate what they believe was a targeted attack.
Billy Watson, 35, was found injured inside a property on Harestanes Road, Armadale, after emergency services were called at around 11.50am on Saturday, September 12.
Mr Watson, who was named locally, was pronounced dead at the scene. Police previously said his death was being treated as suspicious.
The arrest was made on Wednesday, September 16. Enquiries remain ongoing and specialist officers are supporting Mr Watson’s family.
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Detectives are also keeping an open mind over whether two fires reported in the town on the same day were connected to the incident.
Emergency services were alerted to a car fire in the Netherhouses area at around 12pm. A separate blaze was reported several hours later at a derelict building on Wotherspoon Road which was formerly The Sacred Heart & St Anthony church.
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 an increased police presence would remain in Armadale while enquiries continued.
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She 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 contact the enquiry team through the Major Investigation Public Portal. Information can also be given anonymously to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
Tributes were previously paid to Mr Watson, with his daughter writing on social media: “Rest easy dad, you were beyond loved and you will always be loved, forever in our hearts.”
Another tribute 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.”