Inquiry into death of security guard from 'carbon monoxide' at motorbike rally

A Fatal Accident Inquiry (FAI) has been launched into the death of a security guard at a motorbike rally in the Highlands.

Samuel Beaven, 27, died from carbon monoxide toxicity on August 25, 2023 while providing overnight security for an exhibition stall at the annual ‘Thunder in the Glens’ motorcycle rally event held in Aviemore.

The rally is the biggest of its kind in Europe and attracts hundreds of Harley-Davidson enthusiasts to the area each year. The event was paused for 2026 due to rising costs.

A preliminary hearing for the FAI is set for August 11, 2026 at Inverness Sheriff Court. 

The purpose of a Fatal Accident Inquiry (FAI) includes determining the cause of death; the circumstances in which the death 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.   

Debbie Carroll of the Crown Office and Procurator Fiscal Service, Scotland’s death investigation authority, said: “The death of Samuel Beaven 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 Beaven’s family will continue to be kept informed of significant developments as court proceedings progress.” 