Hitman Admits Hogmanay Pub Murder in Edinburgh; Two Plead Guilty to Concealing Evidence

Hitman admits killing rival outside Anchor Inn on Hogmanay

Grant Hunter, 34, has admitted murdering 38-year-old Marc Webley in a gang-related shooting outside the Anchor Inn in Granton, Edinburgh, on Hogmanay 2023. The attack took place just before midnight on New Year's Eve two years ago.

Prosecutors say Hunter approached Webley and another man as they socialised outside the pub. After a short confrontation, Hunter produced a firearm and opened fire at both men. Webley, who had a prior conviction for attempted murder and had served an 11-year sentence, was struck in the back and died soon afterwards. A friend, Stuart Pearson, was also shot but survived.

Court CCTV shown during the hearing captured Webley — wearing a stab vest at the time — running from the scene before he was hit. The indictment records the killing as "aggravated by a connection with serious organised crime." Hunter pleaded guilty to murder and to the attempted murder of Mr Pearson; he is due to be sentenced in Glasgow on 17 December.

Co‑accused admitted cleaning up and disposing of evidence

Two other people, 27-year-old Emma McVie and 22-year-old Gary Robertson, pleaded guilty at the High Court in Edinburgh to attempting to pervert the course of justice. Prosecutors say McVie cleaned the getaway car and laundered the clothing Hunter had worn, while Robertson disposed of the firearm, which police have not yet recovered. Their sentences will be imposed at a later hearing.

Lord Mulholland, the sentencing judge, described Hunter as a "paid assassin" and warned that the streets of Edinburgh and Scotland are not war zones. He noted that four shots were fired at Webley, which, he said, left no doubt as to the intention to kill. Hunter was told he faces a life sentence and that release is not guaranteed.

Detective Superintendent Graham Grant described the violence as "absolutely senseless" and offered condolences to Mr Webley's family. He said: "Discharging a firearm outside a busy pub on New Year's Eve showed no regard for public safety. One man lost his life and another was seriously injured — this incident could have caused even greater harm. Violence and the carrying of firearms is completely unacceptable, and these convictions send a message that we are determined to bring those involved in serious organised crime to justice."

Criminal justice social work reports are being prepared ahead of sentencing next month.