Murder inquiry under way after man gunned down in street

A murder investigation is under way after a man was gunned down in a South Lanarkshire street.

Graham Williamson, 26, was shot by a man who approached him from behind in the back gardens of Caithness Street, Blantyre, at around 5pm on Monday.

Mr Williamson managed to make his way back onto the street, where he was assisted by members of the public until the ambulance arrived.

He was then taken to University Hospital Wishaw where he died a short time later.

His family has been notified and a report will be submitted to the Procurator Fiscal.

Investigating officers believe the shooting was a targeted attack and could be linked to Mr Williamson’s car being torched last week.

The suspect, who was wearing dark clothing and a hood or balaclava, was last seen getting into a dark-coloured car and speeding off.

Detective superintendent Kevin Jamieson, Major Investigation Teams, said: “Mr Williamson had been on Caithness Street having his car uplifted as it had been deliberately set alight last Thursday.

“He left for a short time heading back towards the rear gardens of his home nearby when he was shot by a man who ran up behind him.

“He managed to get back to friends who tried to help him until the ambulance arrived. Unfortunately, he died at the hospital not long afterwards.

“The suspect, only described at this time as wearing dark clothing and either a hood or balaclava covering his face, was seen getting into a dark-coloured car waiting nearby. It then drove off at speed out of Caithness Street.

“Officers are currently checking CCTV and speaking to witnesses, however, they are still keen to hear from anyone who may have any information that will assist their enquiry.

“Maybe you have dashcam footage of the area or indeed the surrounding streets into which maybe the dark-coloured car the suspect made off?

“We believe that this was a targeted attack and may be linked to the car being set alight, however, whether it was or not doesn’t matter; this was a shooting in a residential area with other people about in the early evening.

“It is imperative we catch those responsible for Graham’s murder and we would ask locals or indeed anyone with information to get in touch.”

In the meantime, high-visibility patrols will be carried out in the area. Those with concerns are being urged to speak to officers.

If you have any information, call 101 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.

Information can also be given through the Major Incident Public Portal.