The episode revisits a dramatic night in Rothes, Scotland, on 26 May, 1905, when a routine police patrol turned violent. The quiet town was rocked after Constable William Baron was shot at close range while responding to a domestic disturbance at the home of James Craigie, a man with a troubled past marked by violence and resentment toward Constable Baron. The incident left Constable Baron gravely wounded and led to James Craigie’s arrest and eventual conviction for an intentional assault to the danger of life.

The epiosode explores how years of animosity, alcohol abuse, and unchecked hostility culminated in an act that unsettled the local community, serving as a stark reminder that even peaceful places harbour danger beneath the surface.

This episode also offers listeners a chance to learn about other 1905 events in the “Scotland Then” episode, available through the podcast’s Patreon membership at Scottish Murders Patreon

Please Be Advised – This episode may contain content that some may find distressing. As always, we advise listener discretion. This episode it not suitable for anyone under the age of 13.