Death investigations

Fatal Accident Inquiry Determination published following death of woman in hospital

The Crown Office and Procurator Fiscal Service (COPFS) notes the conclusion of the Fatal Accident Inquiry into the death of 49-year-old Elizabeth McCready.

Ms McCready died on 30 June 2018 at Glasgow Royal Infirmary. 

This was a discretionary inquiry as the Lord Advocate considered that the death of Elizabeth McCready occurred in circumstances giving rise to serious public concern. 

Ms McCready had been admitted to Munro Ward, Stobhill Hospital, Glasgow on 23 June 2018 and was receiving inpatient care at the time of the circumstances leading to her death. 

DETERMINATION INTO THE DEATH OF ELIZABETH MCCREADY 

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.   

Unlike a criminal trial, a Fatal Accident Inquiry (FAI) seeks to establish the facts surrounding the death and is not a hearing which apportions blame.    

The Procurator Fiscal, who acts in the public interest in such Inquiry, led evidence on the facts and circumstances of Ms McCready's death.  

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

We note and welcome the Sheriff’s determination. 

“The Procurator Fiscal ensured that the full facts and circumstances of Ms McCready’s death were led in evidence at this discretionary Fatal Accident Inquiry.”