Police launch murder probe after man dies near primary school

Gary Nicol leaning against a brick wall wearing a green jacket and purple lanyard. — Image caption,
Gary Nicol died after being found near Williamston Primary School in Livingston

8 October 2024

Police have launched a murder probe into the death of a man near a primary school in West Lothian.

Gary Nicol was found with serious injuries in the Bankton Lane area of Livingston at about 02:00 on 26 September.

The 50-year-old was pronounced dead at the scene and his death was initially treated as unexplained following a post-mortem examination.

But police now believe Mr Nicol was murdered following a "complex" investigation by specialist officers.

Floral tributes left leaning against a tree in autumnal woodland with orange, yellow and brown leaves on the floor in West Lothian near to the location of where Mr Nicol's body was found.

Floral tributes have been left close to where Mr Nicol's body was found

Floral tributes have been left in woodland close to where Mr Nicol's body was found.

Detectives believe Mr Nicol drove to the street, near Williamston Primary School, in his black Ford Mondeo with the registration plate GN02 GRN at about midnight.

Officers have appealed for anyone who saw Mr Nicol or his vehicle in the area at that time to come forward.

An online portal has been set up for the public to submit information anonymously, external.

Det Ch Insp Jonathan Pleasance said: “Our thoughts are with Mr Nicol's family and friends at this very difficult time,” he said.

"It is vital that we get answers for them and we are fully committed to tracing the person responsible as soon as possible.

"This is a challenging investigation and any piece of information, no matter how small or insignificant you think it is, could prove vital so please do pass it on."

DCI Jonathan Pleasance in front of a blurred background in West Brae, Livingston following a police press conference into the opening of a murder probe after the death of Gary Nicol. DCI Pleasance is looking into the camera wearing a blue shirt with a blue and white striped tie under a dark jacket.

Det Ch Insp Pleasance said the investigation had been 'complex'

Forensic officers have searched the nearby woodland, while CCTV footage has been gathered from the local area.

Door-to-door inquiries are also being carried out.

Local area commander, Ch Isp Elaine McArthur-Kerr, said: "I would like to reassure the community that officers are working hard to trace whoever is responsible.

“We understand the significant impact this has had on the people of Livingston and there is a dedicated team of officers working on this investigation.”

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