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.

Lost Daughters: The Tragic Fate of Kay Wylie and Nancy Nichol Part 1:
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 Nichol’s life is also cut short, Dawn lays the groundwork for what is to come—the shocking events of the trial and the lingering suspicions of a miscarriage of justice.

Uncovering the High Court Drama: The Kay and Nancy Murder Case Continues Part 2:
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 tense atmosphere in court. The episode leaves us on the verge of the jury’s crucial verdict, with the promise that the story is far from over. So, settle in for a gripping account of one of Scotland’s most chilling double murder trials.

Justice Delayed: Controversy, Appeals, and the Search for Truth Part 3:
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.

Unravelling the Cameron Legacy: Heartache, Justice, and Denial Part 4:
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 battles, and the consequential fate of Andrew’s younger brother Rodney, who would later be convicted of grave crimes himself.

Cold Facts, No Frills Episode (a more detailed, emotive episode will be available on 2 December)

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 help bring answers to James’ family.

In response to a listener’s feedback, Dawn skips the usual style of episode and sticks to sharing the facts only. For those who prefer the normal style of episode, they can join our Patreon community for free and listen to a more detailed version of the unsolved of James Craik, which will be available 2 December. 

You can also join our Patreon community for as little as £2.50 or $3 and continue to listen to our Scotland Then episodes.

Join our Patreon Community -Scottish Murders | creating podcasts | Patreon

TRIGGER WARNING: This episode covers the topic of rape, so listener discretion is advised. 
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.

Part 2 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 threaten public safety. The episode also raises questions about rehabilitation, life sentences that don't mean life, and whether some criminals deserve second chances when their victims never received one.

Scotland Then: Master Keys, Murder Trials and Incredible Survival Stories from Scotland’s 1983

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 that spiralled into violence and culminated in a tragic shooting.

Amidst these grim headlines, we get a glimpse into lighter news, such as Edinburgh University’s feature in a BBC documentary, and the survival story of a teenager who fell into a 150-foot gully on a rope swing—living to tell the tale. Commenting on the culture and crime of the era, Dawn asks listeners to remember, respond, and share their own experiences.

Tune in for an episode packed with real-life drama, and even a few moments of Scottish nostalgia.