Mr Robertson, 61, the owner and skipper of the fishing boat ‘Reul A Chuain’, a twin-rigged prawn trawler out of Mallaig, died on 24 June 2021 after falling overboard while attempting to rescue a deckhand from the waters of the Sound of Rum.
The inquiry was a mandatory inquiry since the death of Mr Robertson occurred while in the course of his employment.
In his determination, the sheriff noted precautions on the wearing of personal flotation devices.
DETERMINATION INTO THE DEATH OF LACHLAN ROBERTSON
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, who acts in the public interest, provided detailed and comprehensive evidence to the Inquiry on the facts and circumstances of Mr Robertson's death.
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 Robertson's death were provided at the mandatory Fatal Accident Inquiry.
“The Determination has been provided to Mr Robertson'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.