Death investigations

Determination published following death of a hotel director

The Crown Office and Procurator Fiscal Service (COPFS) notes the conclusion of the Fatal Accident Inquiry into the death of Gregor Deakin.  

Mr Deakin, 48, died on 6 October 2021 after an accident where a JCB being driven by him fell off the pier at Ardeonaig Hotel, Killin and landed in Loch Tay. 

The inquiry was a mandatory inquiry since the death of Mr Deakin occurred while in the course of his employment.      

DETERMINATION INTO THE DEATH OF GREGOR DEAKIN   

Unlike a criminal trial, an FAI seeks to establish the facts surrounding the death and is not a hearing which apportions blame.   

The purpose of an inquiry is to establish the circumstances of the death and to consider what steps, if any, may be taken to prevent other deaths in similar circumstances.   

The Procurator Fiscal provided detailed and comprehensive evidence to the Inquiry on the facts and circumstances of Mr Deakin's death and led evidence from a HSE Inspector on the use of tracked excavators.    

Following the publication of the determination, Procurator Fiscal Andy Shanks, who leads on fatalities investigations for COPFS said:    

 “We note the Sheriff’s Determination.          

“The Procurator Fiscal ensured that the full facts and circumstances of Mr Deakin’s death were provided at the mandatory Fatal Accident Inquiry. 

“The Determination has been provided to Mr Deakin’s family and our thoughts are with them at this time.” 

Further information

For more information on Fatal Accident Inquiries, see the Crown’s guide