Death investigations

FAI court process begins following the death of a farmer

The Crown Office and Procurator Fiscal Service (COPFS) has lodged a First Notice to begin the court process for a Fatal Accident Inquiry (FAI) into the death of Derek Taylor.

Mr Taylor, 55, who was a partner in Maidenwells Farm, Rumbling Bridge, Kinross, died on 18 September 2022, after an accident involving a John Deere utility vehicle.  

A preliminary hearing is set for 21 November 2024.   

The Fatal Accident Inquiry will be held on 12 December 2024 within the Dundee Justice Hub 

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.   

Procurator Fiscal Andy Shanks, who leads on death investigations for COPFS, said:           

“The death of Derek Taylor occurred while in the course of his employment and as such a Fatal Accident Inquiry is mandatory.        

“The lodging of the First Notice enables FAI proceedings to commence under the direction of the Sheriff.        

 “Mr Taylor’s family will continue to be kept informed of significant developments as court proceedings progress.”