Scottish Murders Podcast
Scottish Murders is a twice award shortlisted, fortnightly podcast that brings to light the stories of murders victims from or living in Scotland and the relentless pursuit for justice in solved and unsolved cases, and is sensitively and respectfully hosted by Dawn.
Latest Episode
Uncovering the Dark History of Castle Fraser
A Supermarket Nightmare: How a Killer Walked Among Us Part 1 - 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.
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Previous Episodes
The Crimes of John Cant Smith
October 27, 2025
A Supermarket Nightmare: How a Killer Walked Among Us Part 1 - 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.
1967’s Vanishing Hitchhiker: The Pat McAdam Story
September 1, 2025
A 1967 Scottish Mystery: The Disappearance of Pat McAdam Part 1- 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 Thomas Ross Young, 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.
The Clairvoyant's Quest: Unravelling Pat McAdam's Disappearance Part 2 - 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 suspect in Pat's case.
Unmasking a Monster: Thomas Young's Decades of Depravity Part 3 - 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.
Pat McAdam: When Legal Hurdles Obstruct Cold Case Justice Part 4 - 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.
Scotland Then: From Clay Traps to Classroom Gaps: A Snapshot of 1967 Scotland - 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.
The Lingering Questions in Aileen Printie’s Death
July 28, 2025
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.
Part1 - 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 later died by suicide. They also analyse the police investigation's shortcomings, questioning the lack of DNA evidence and the hasty closure of the case. They debate the ethics of naming suspects without charges and the impact on both families involved. The episode highlights the limitations of 1980s forensics and the frustration of unresolved cases, leaving listeners to ponder the true identity of Aileen's killer.
Part2 - 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 the time and raises questions about the justice system's approach to cold cases. Throughout, the hosts engage in lively debate, offering insights and speculations that keep listeners intrigued by this baffling crime.
Scotland Then - 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.
The Motiveless Murder of George Martin
July 22, 2025
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.
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 the early 1970s.
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Find Scottish Murders on all platforms!Here's what our listeners have to say...
Well researched but waaay too many annoying adds during the play! Should just play adds at the start & end as it is very disruptive.
Dawn always picks great cases and presents them well...if you like a Scottish accent you will love this podcast
The topic itself sounds gruesome but Dawn delivers the facts and commentary in a really enjoyable way. It immerses you in the story whilst respecting the victims. I love the mixture of solved and unsolved. I love when new episodes appear in my feed. Keep up the brilliant work.



