Scottish Murders

In this episode, investigative journalist Hazel Martin and documentary director Stephen Bennett discuss their BBC documentary "The Man in the Mask," which examines the 1994 murder of Shamsuddin Mahmood in Orkney—the island’s first murder in 25 years.

The BBC three part documentary explores the brutal crime, the extensive investigation that initially focused on 15-year-old Michael Ross, his eventual conviction, and Ross’s continued claims of innocence.

Hazel and Stephen share behind-the-scenes insights into the making of the documentary, including ethical considerations, challenges with accessing key witnesses, conflicting evidence, and why this case still divides the Orkney commun...

In this episode of Scottish Murders, Dawn covers the perplexing, unsolved 1913 murder of Mary Spear Gunn at Portencross. Drawing on Stephen Brown’s meticulously researched book, "Who Killed Mary Gunn?", the story explores Mary’s life, her relationships, and the fateful night she was gunned down in the remote North Bank Cottage. Dawn walks listeners through the night’s chilling events, police investigations, suspects, and enduring mysteries, focusing on Stephen’s theory of the case. Was it a crime of passion, jealousy, or something more hidden? With lost evidence and rumours swirling around the small Ayrshire community, the episode unravels possible...

Trigger Warning: This episode covers crimes against children and suicide, so listener discretion is advised.

In this episode of "Scotland Today," Dawn explores the haunting case of Ellen Hannah, who, on the 31st March 1896, tragically took the lives of her three youngest children in Pollokshaws, Glasgow, before attempting to end her own. With sensitivity and care, Dawn highlights Ellen’s struggle with deep melancholy, shedding light on the devastating effects of mental illness in a time when support was scarce. This sobering story, filled with community reactions and heartbreak, serves as a grim reminder of the sh...

Journey through tragedy, courage, and the enduring impact of violence with Dawn as she explores two Scottish cases that left lasting scars on families and communities. This episode is a sobering reflection on justice, loss, and the heroes who stand against chaos.

🔎 3 key takeaways:
The Ripple Effects of Violence: The murder of Michelle Wenden in 2004 didn’t just end a life—it uprooted a family and left her children traumatised, ultimately forcing them to flee the very community they returned to for safety. Dawn illustrates how violent acts echo far beyond the crime scene, touching every corner of vict...

Travel back to March 1945 as we revisit a moment in Greenock’s history that is as gripping as it is unsettling. This debut 'Scotland Today' episode shines a light on crime, justice, and enduring mystery—through the lens of the Wolf of Greenock case.

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3 Key Takeaways:
A Dockside Murder Grips a Nation:
The episode plunges listeners into a chilling December night in 1944, as Dawn recounts the brutal assault and murder of merchant seaman Leonard Davies in Greenock. The community is rocked, both by the violence of the crime and the s...

In this episode Dawn unravels the tragic death of Irene Martin, a beloved Scottish police officer. Listeners are taken through Irene’s life, her relationships, and the chilling events surrounding that fateful November morning in 1993, when her body was discovered after a fire in her Dundee flat. As the investigation unfolds, secrets, motives, and emotional testimonies emerge, painting a complex picture of Irene’s world. The episode also touches on the lasting impact Irene had on her family, friends, and community, who honoured her legacy in moving ways.

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Welcome to the final instalment of our Kay Wyllie and Nancy Nichol case.

In this episode, Dawn unpacks the aftermath following the conviction of murderer, Andrew Cameron, and explores the profound impact this had on the Cameron family.In this episode, Dawn explores what happened after Andrew Cameron’s appeal failed, revealing insights about his family, especially his mother Marion, whose fierce loyalty, shifting identity in media, and ultimate heartbreak are examined. Listeners are guided through the years after the trial: the family’s changing fortunes, Marion’s refusal to give up on her son, the ongoing legal battle...

In this episode, Dawn picks up the story as the jury returns its verdict in the sensational double murder trial of Andrew Cameron for the murders of Kay Wyllie and Nancy Nichol. The episode covers the aftermath of the verdict, exploring public outrage, the perspectives of the victims’ families, and the legal battles that ensued—including dramatic appeals and new evidence that threatened to rewrite the story.

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SOURCES:
Please see our website for all source material and photos at https://scottishmurders.com/episodes/kayandnancy

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In this episode, we continue the story by stepping inside the courtroom of the 1985 murder trial, as 19-year-old Andrew Cameron stands accused of brutally murdering Kay Wyllie and Nancy Nichol. 

You'll hear how the trial unfolded, with dramatic courtroom clashes, emotional testimonies from family and friends, and expert insight from pathologists and fingerprint specialists. Dawn guides us through the investigation’s many twists and turns—including a surprising confession, a mysterious anonymous letter, and shifting statements that cast doubt at every corner.

As the evidence mounts, conflicting statements and allegations of police misconduct only add to the t...

Welcome to another episode of Scottish Murders. This week, Dawn takes us back to Ayrshire in the 1980s to explore the tragic murders of Kay Wylie and Nancy Nichol. In part one, Dawn details the dramatic upheaval of the Wylie family as they move from South Africa to Scotland, hoping for a new beginning, only to be struck by tragedy when their daughter Kay disappears and is later found murdered. The episode follows the initial investigation, the heartbreak of Kay's parents, and the twists and turns as police try to piece together her final hours. As questions mount and Nancy...

In this episode of Scottish Murders, host Dawn explores the unresolved case of James Craik, a 49-year-old man found dead in his Huntly, Aberdeenshire flat on 12th March 1997. The episode pieces together the key facts surrounding James's tragic death, including the police investigation, the search for a mystery woman last seen with him, and the impact on his devastated family. Despite extensive police enquiries, public appeals, and even the brief arrest of a suspect, James Craik's murder remains unsolved, casting a long shadow over his loved ones. Dawn encourages anyone with information about James Craik’s murder to come forward to...

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Welcome back to another Scotland Then, where we journey through intriguing and sometimes shocking stories from Scotland’s past as reported in newspapers.

In this episode, Dawn takes us to April and June of 1983, a time marked by notorious crimes, prison scandals, and unexpected accidents. We’ll hear of the master key controversy at Dungavel Prison, where an inmate allegedly bribed a prison officer and crafted keys that opened almost every lock. There’s also the morbid tale of Catherine Grier’s murder, as well as a party th...

Castle Fraser in Aberdeenshire stands as one of Scotland's largest tower houses, concealing centuries of dark secrets within its 1450s core. Beyond the colourful walled gardens lies a fortress of hidden passages, including the laird's lug—a secret spy room for eavesdropping on the great hall below. The castle harbours chilling tales: the Green Lady, murdered and dragged down the round tower staircase, her blood staining the steps so permanently they required wooden panelling that remains today. Then there's the Lady in Black, who died of tuberculosis days after marrying Laird Frederick Mackenzie Fraser—her shaved auburn hair still preserved in t...

Part two continues to look at the disturbing case of John Cant Smith, a convicted murderer and rapist who was released from prison despite mounting evidence he remained dangerous. After serving 19 years for a brutal 1983 murder, John Cant Smith was freed in 2002, only to reoffend within months. This episode explores his 1987 involvement in the notorious Peterhead Prison riot, his subsequent crimes including prowling around a mother and daughter's home, and his 2006 attempted abduction. Host Dawn questions why John Cant Smith was repeatedly released despite clear warning signs, examining failures in the criminal justice system that allowed a violent offender to...

Dawn, host of Scottish Murders, explores a chilling case that unfolds in two parts. The episodes focus on John Cant Smith, a man whose extensive criminal history raised questions about the justice system. Dawn recounts John Cant Smith's attempted abduction of Dr. Frances Smith in 2006, a time when his prior convictions for murder and rape were disclosed. Dawn also discusses the lenient sentencing practices of the 1980s, and tries to understand why this man was ever released from prison.

SOURCES:
Please see our website for all source material and photos at https://scottishmurders.com/episodes/johncantsmith
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This episode of Scotland Then explores newspaper stories from March 1967, focusing on the time around Pat McAdam's disappearance. It covers a range of events, including a man trapped in clay for eight hours, a nuclear emergency false alarm, child abuse cases, and education challenges in Glasgow. Dawn also shares TV programming from the era, featuring shows like Coronation Street and Tomorrow's World. The episode concludes with a word challenge for listeners, asking them to list as many words beginning with 'A' as possible in 10 minutes, promising a shoutout for the winner in a future episode.

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This episode covers the final developments in Pat McAdam's disappearance case. It details the 2004 breakthrough leading to Thomas Ross Young's arrest, subsequent legal challenges, and the ultimate decision not to indict him. It explores the impact of the Angus Sinclair trial on historical cases and discusses the frustrations of Pat's family. It also examines the controversy surrounding psychic involvement in the case and questions the ethics of labelling Pat McAdam’s disappearance as a "classic" psychic case. It concludes by reflecting on the case's unresolved nature, 58 years after Pat's disappearance.

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Please see our website for all so...

Trigger Warning: This episode covers the topic of rape and domestic abuse, so listener discretion is advised.

This episode of Scottish Murders focuses on Thomas Ross Young, a serial rapist and murderer active in Scotland during the 1960s and 70s. Dawn recounts Thomas’ troubled childhood, his violent marriage, and his escalating criminal behaviour. As a long-distance lorry driver, Thomas preyed on women across the UK, culminating in his conviction for the murder of Frances Barker. The episode also explores Thomas’ potential connection to other unsolved cases, including Pat McAdam's disappearance.

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This episode of Scottish Murders explores the ongoing investigation into Pat McAdam's 1967 disappearance. Host Dawn recounts journalist Frank Ryan's efforts to keep the case alive, including his collaboration with Dutch clairvoyant Gerard Croiset. Despite Gerard’s detailed visions, no concrete evidence was found. The episode also covers the discovery of an unidentified woman's body near where Pat was last seen, and touches on the broader issue of missing persons in Scotland. Dawn examines the impact of psychic detectives on cold cases and the public's perception of clairvoyance. The narrative sets up for the next episode, which will introduce a potential su...

This episode explores the disappearance of 17-year-old Pat McAdam in February 1967. It recounts Pat's last known movements, from a night out in Glasgow to hitchhiking home with a friend. The case takes a dark turn when Pat vanishes after being dropped off by a lorry driver. The episode examines the extensive police investigation, including nationwide searches and public appeals. It also introduces the lorry driver who was the last person to see Pat alive, and his criminal history. The host promises more twists in future episodes, including involvement of a clairvoyant and potential breakthroughs in the case.

This...

This episode of Scotland Then explores newspaper stories from August and September 1981, focusing on events around the time of Aileen Printie’s murder.
Dawn shares a vivid article about the Edinburgh Fringe, discusses a forensic scientist's discredited evidence leading to a wrongful conviction, and recounts a tragic case of a young girl's death during routine medical tests.
The episode also covers a murder trial with an unexpected appeal outcome and a mountain rescue false alarm. Through these stories, listeners are transported to early 1980s Scotland, gaining insight into the era's cultural events, legal proceedings, and everyday life.

This episode of Scotland Then explores various news stories from 1970, including a clairvoyant's involvement in a missing person case, rising hooliganism in St. Andrews, and several criminal cases resulting in prison sentences.
We examine the disappearance of Pat McAdam, discuss street violence and vandalism that led to the suspension of town hall dances, and recount notable crimes such as home invasions and assaults. 
The episode also covers an intriguing car theft incident and concludes with population statistics for Scotland in 1969. Throughout, Dawn provides historical context and personal reflections, offering listeners a glimpse into Scottish society and crime in t...

TRIGGER WARNING - This episode covers the topic of suicide, so listener discretion is advised.

This is a video episode and you can watch on YouTube at https://youtu.be/1YY1O2NuIqw

This episode continues to explore the unsolved murder of Aileen Printie in 1981 in Edinburgh. Dawn and Marti examine the puzzling details of the case, including a mysterious cufflink, an ice bucket, and conflicting evidence. They discuss various theories and the police's handling of the investigation, which led to a controversial conclusion years later. The episode also highlights the limitations of forensic technology at t...

TRIGGER WARNING - This episode covers the topic of suicide, so listener discretion is advised.

You can watch this episode is a video episode and you can watch it on YouTube - https://youtu.be/1YY1O2NuIqw

Dawn and Marti from Mums, Mysteries and Murder podcast, did their first ever live podcast recording at Airdrie Library for the Killers and Coffee event.

They discuss the unsolved 1981 murder of Aileen Printie in Edinburgh. They explore the case details, including the mysterious ice bucket, cufflink evidence, and the controversial identification of a 16-year-old suspect who...

This episode explores the 1970 murder of George Nixon Martin, a Dundee taxi driver. It recounts the events leading to his death, the swift capture of his teenage killers, and the shocking trial revelations. It uncovers potential occult motivations, diminished responsibility claims, and the impact on Martin's family. It also touches on the narrow escape of another taxi driver and the community's response to the tragedy. The detailed narrative by host, Dawn, paints a vivid picture of this seemingly motiveless crime, offering listeners a glimpse into a dark chapter of Scottish criminal history.

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This week we examine the tragic murder of Elizabeth Campbell in 1932 in Glasgow, and the investigation that led to the arrest of two young men. The episode also looks at the trial, including witness testimonies and the public petition for clemency, and brings to life the complexities of the case, providing listeners with a compelling insight of a lesser-known Scottish murder.

SOURCES:
Please see our website for all source material and photos at scottishmurders.com/episodes/elizabethcampbell

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In this episode of Scotland Then, we highlight newspaper stories from The Scotsman from 1932, covers various tragic events, accidents, and murders. Notable stories include the fate of Betty Gow, the Scottish nanny in the Lindbergh case, and the murder trial of George Dollin.

The episode concludes by previewing upcoming episodes, including the murder of Elizabeth Campbell in 1932 and the unsolved/solved? case of Aileen Printie in 1981.

Listeners are also introduced to Mike from the Murder Mile UK True Crime podcast

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Please see our website for all source material and photos at https...

This special episode takes listeners behind the scenes at CrimeCon UK and the True Crime Awards.
Listeners are treated to snippets of live sessions, personal reflections from podcasters, guests and organisers, offering a glimpse into the vibrant true crime community. This episode captures the excitement and camaraderie of the events, and showcases the diverse range of voices and perspectives that make up the true crime landscape.

We can't wait to attend CrimeCon in Manchester on 27th September 2025. You can get your tickets now at CrimeCon, and don't forget to use the code 'SCOTTISH' for a discount.
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This episode of Scotland Then explores historical events from 1971, focusing on crimes in Dundee and Glasgow. The episode covers unsolved murders, including James Keltie’s case, and violent incidents involving children. It highlights a series of deaths in Dundee, detailing specific cases and their outcomes. The podcast also touches on lighter topics, like the "Ice Cream Bandit" story. 

SOURCES:
Please see our website for all source material and photos at https://scottishmurders.com/episodes/dianegraham/

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This episode of Scottish Murders explores the harrowing case of 16-year-old Diane Graham, tragically murdered in Dundee in 1971. The host scrutinises the contrasting narratives between the Law Killers book and period newspaper reports, questioning the detective's unexpected empathy for the killer. Listeners are taken through Diane's life, her last night out, and the swift arrest of her murderer. The episode reveals chilling details of the crime and its devastating impact on Diane's family, including her mother's untimely death. This episode challenges perceptions of media portrayal and compassion in criminal cases, leaving listeners to ponder the complexities of justice and empathy.<...

In this "Scotland Then" episode we explore historical events from October 1985. We cover diverse stories, including a Yorkshire visitor's misadventures in Oban, a tragic fatal accident due to a misplaced breathing tube, a fatal wedding day altercation, two murders involving young perpetrators, and a museum T-shirt design competition.
The episode highlights the challenges of finding complete information on historical events, and encourages listener engagement regarding the T-shirt competition outcome.

SOURCES:
Please see our website for all source material and photos at scottishmurders.com/episodes/philipwong

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This episode of Scottish Murders explores the unresolved 1985 murder of Kwong ‘Philip’ Wong, a prominent Chinese businessman in Glasgow. It explores the rise of triad gangs in Scotland during the 1970s-80s and their impact on the Chinese community. It explores Philip’s rise as a respected community leader, his involvement in exposing extortion schemes, and relationship with triad groups, and the brutal attack that ended his life. It examines various theories behind the murder, including triad rivalries and business disputes, while highlighting the challenges faced by investigators due to a wall of silence within the Chinese community. The episode also t...

This episode revisits the unsolved 1983 murder of Aberdeen taxi driver George Murdoch. It covers recent developments including DNA evidence, familial DNA testing, and rewards. George's nephew, Alex, and Alex’s wife, Robina, discuss their ongoing campaign to find the killer, including tips received through social media. The podcast explores theories about the murderer's profile and motivations. It emphasises the impact on George's wife Jessie and appeals for anyone with information to come forward, even anonymously, stressing that every lead is taken seriously in the hope of finally solving this over 40-year-old cold case.

LINKS:
Facebook - Appeal fo...

In this special update episode of Scottish Murders, host Dawn revisits the unsolved 1983 murder of Aberdeen taxi driver George Murdoch, exploring the family's relentless quest for justice. Dawn speaks with George's nephew Alex and his wife Robina, who have worked tirelessly to keep the case in the public eye and their efforts in doing this are discussed, including media campaigns, TV appearances and collaborations with the police. The episode highlights significant developments, such as the 2015 lead involving a man wearing an Iron Maiden t-shirt, the release of a key photo in 2023, and the impact of a former prisoner's perspective on...

In this gripping episode, former Scottish police officers Bob and Rory recount their investigation into the mysterious death of Nigel Rannach, whose remains were found after three years. The officers were tasked with retrieving a toy Piglet, significant to Nigel's family, but instead uncovered unsettling evidence, including a used condom, multiple sleeping bags and boots, raising questions about the initial suicide ruling. As they navigate through the case, they express frustration with police procedures and management, highlighting issues within the force. Their candid discussion reveals the ethical dilemmas they faced and the impact of police culture on their careers. The...

Scottish Murders returns with an intriguing fictional case told by former Scottish police officers Bob and Rory from the podcast Code 21.

The episode explores the mysterious death of Nigel Rannoch, whose skeletal remains were discovered in a tent in the Scottish Highlands, three years after he disappeared. Initially deemed a suicide, the investigation reveals numerous inconsistencies, including missing items and unexplained evidence. The officers recount their experiences, highlighting the challenges of rural policing and the procedural flaws that can occur. They discuss the emotional impact of such cases and the camaraderie that helps officers cope with the job's...

True Crime Podcasters Roundtable hosts Adam and Paul are joined by guests Dawn and Naomi to explore the intricacies of true crime podcasting. The discussion covers the ethical responsibilities of narrating sensitive cases, the influence of listener feedback, and the delicate balance between humour and respect for victims. The panel also examines the UK prison system, debating early release policies and alternative punishments. Personal experiences with negative reviews and the importance of empathy in storytelling are also shared, as well as highlighting the necessity for responsible content creation and the supportive role of the podcasting community.

This episode of Scotland Then explores newspaper stories from February 1966, offering a glimpse into Scottish life during that time. Dawn recounts tales from various publications, including the closure of the Deeside Railway, a controversial homicide case, and a dramatic petrol tanker fire in East Kilbride. The episode also highlights technological advancements, such as the first commercial computer in the Highlands, and touches on social changes. Dawn concludes with a look at the television programming available on a typical Saturday in 1966, providing listeners with a snapshot of Scottish society during this period.

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This episode focuses on the unsolved 1966 murder of David McMenigall in Edinburgh, exploring the case details, David McMenigall’s lifestyle, the night of his murder, and subsequent police investigations. The episode highlights the focus being on David McMenigall’s personal life in media coverage and discusses the potential murder weapon - a Ford Mustang horse emblem. The episode also touches on the broader context of unsolved murders in Scotland and the advancements in cold case investigations. Listeners are encouraged to come forward with any information that might help solve this decades-old case.

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Unsolved: Vintage moto...

In this episode listeners are transported back to December 1883, exploring captivating stories from the past. The episode highlights festive preparations with adverts for Christmas sales, a near-disaster at Oban railway station involving gunpowder, and a devastating gale that wreaked havoc across Scotland. Dawn recounts tales of unexpected inheritances, innovative uses of melon seeds, and a series of tragic accidents, including a shooting mishap and fatal incidents involving trains and coal pits. The episode concludes with a light-hearted poem and an invitation to explore historical archives. This engaging journey through history offers a vivid glimpse into the events and lives of 19...