A case of stolen identity: the 1935 Moffat murders | In-person

Identifying the victims of the 1935 Moffat murders was a complex task, only made possible with the help of Scotland’s leading specialists. While challenging, it led to major advances in forensics.

On Sunday 29 September 1935, two women take a morning walk just outside of the small town of Moffat, and make a grisly discovery: small, wrapped packages containing the remains of two unknown people. This triggers a several month-long investigation to uncover who the victims were and how they met their untimely fate.

How did investigators recover the missing identities of these victims – and how would things be different if they had access to modern forensic techniques? A panel of forensic experts, historians, and legal representatives will review the case at this event and answer your questions.

Whether you're interested in true crime, history, or intrigued by the fusion of science and justice, this panel promises riveting discussions and thought-provoking insights.

The latest series of Inside Forensic Science podcast covers this story in greater depth.

Please note that this event is for ages 16+ and will feature graphic content including descriptions of body parts, decomposition, and potential discussion of domestic abuse.

Can't attend in-person? Watch online!

This is a hybrid event. This event page is for the in-person tickets only. If you would like to attend online, please book your tickets through the online (livestreamed) event page.

Important points to note

• This event is suitable for age 16+

• Content warning: Please note that this event is for ages 16+ and will feature graphic content including descriptions of body parts, decomposition, and potential discussion of domestic abuse.
• Filming: Livestreaming and photography may take place at this event. Please let a member of the RSE Public Engagement team know if you do not want to be photographed. Recorded events will be made available on the RSE YouTube channel.
• Covid-19: If you would like to wear a face mask, please feel comfortable to do so at our events. Please be mindful of other participants and stay at home if you have Covid symptoms or have tested positive for Covid-19.

HOST

Pennie Stuart

Broadcaster and Co-director of Adventurous Audio

Pennie is the Director of Adventurous Audio productions and the producer and narrator of the Inside Forensic Science Podcast. She is an experienced producer and presenter and previously worked for the BBC.

SPEAKER

Professor Niamh Nic Daéid FRSE

Director of the Leverhulme Research Centre for Forensic Science University of Dundee

Niamh Nic Daéid FRSE is an Irish forensic scientist, and the Professor of Forensic Science and Director of Research at the University of Dundee. She is a Chartered Chemist and an authorised Forensic Chemist with specialisms including fire investigation, clandestine drug chemistry and explosives.

She undertakes forensic casework, primarily in fire scene investigation and has appeared as an expert witness for the Courts. She has chaired the European Network of Forensic Science Institutes (ENFSI) fire and explosion Investigation working group, the INTERPOL forensic science managers symposium and was deputy chair of the Scientific Advisory Board of the International Criminal Court.

SPEAKER

Alex Prentice KC

Crown Counsel

Alex Prentice KC is a senior Advocate Depute (High Court prosecutor) who has been responsible for the prosecution of a wide range of homicides including the cold case murders of Renee and Andrew MacRae (1976) and Dr Brenda Page (1978), the trials of which were televised for the BBC Murder Trial series.Prior the becoming a prosecutor, he had extensive experience as a defence lawyer.

SPEAKER

Kenny Laing

Scottish Police Services Authority, Forensic Services

About the Curious festival

The RSE’s free Curious festival of knowledge is back, from Saturday 6 − Saturday 14 September 2025!

Curious is a festival of ideas – open to all and driven by connection, conversation, and discovery. It’s a chance to explore ideas and questions that matter with some of Scotland’s leading thinkers – and with people who bring their own lived experiences, insights, and curiosity to the table.

From science and society to arts and innovation, the programme spans a wide range of topics – with each event designed to spark dialogue, invite different perspectives, and encourage knowledge exchange.

Curious is an opportunity to meet like-minded individuals, plus those who see the world differently, and be part of discussions where everyone is welcome to share, learn, and be inspired. Full programme of events here.

Accessibility

We aim to make events as accessible as possible. If you have any accessibility requirements or have any questions related to how we can support this event, please contact public_engagement@theRSE.org.uk. Accessibility information for the RSE building can be found on our website: Accessibility - Royal Society of Edinburgh (RSE) : Royal Society of Edinburgh

The RSE is trialling the WelcoMe app for our public events. This app enables visitors with accessibility needs to discreetly inform our staff of any assistance required before their visit. Simply fill out a quick form with your needs and estimated arrival time, and our team will be ready to accommodate you.

Wheelchair spaces: If you would like to book a space as a wheelchair user, please select the ticket type 'wheelchair space ticket' during the booking process. If this is sold out, please contact the Curious team on curious@therse.org.uk.

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