Jacqui Hunter died on 13 May 2020 from an obstetrics complication after being admitted to Ninewells Hospital, Dundee to deliver her baby, who was found to have died in utero on 12 May 2020.
A preliminary hearing is set for 23 August 2023 at Dundee Sheriff Court.
The purpose of a Fatal Accident Inquiry (FAI) includes determining the cause of death; the circumstances in which the deaths occurred, and to establish what, if any, reasonable precautions could have been taken, and could be implemented in the future, to minimise the risk of future deaths in similar circumstances.
Unlike criminal proceedings, FAIs are inquisitorial in nature, and are used to establish facts rather than to apportion blame.
This Inquiry will explore the circumstances of Jacqui Hunter’s death, with particular focus on the care and treatment provided by the medical staff at Lochee Medical Practice, Dundee and Ninewells Hospital and to establish whether steps might have been taken to avoid the death.
Procurator Fiscal Andy Shanks, who leads on death investigations for COPFS, said:
“The death of Jacqui Hunter occurred in circumstances giving rise to significant public concern and as such a discretionary Fatal Accident Inquiry will be held.
“The lodging of the First Notice enables FAI proceedings to commence under the direction of the Sheriff.
“Jacqui Hunter’s family will continue to be kept informed of significant developments as court proceedings progress.”