FAI to be held into death of farmer after utility vehicle accident

Derek Taylor, who was a partner in Maidenwells Farm in Kinross, died on September 18, 2022.

Beth Franklin

17th Oct 2024

Posted in

Perth and Kinross

A Fatal Accident Inquiry (FAI) will be held over the death of a farmer in Perth and Kinross.

Derek Taylor, who was partner in Maidenwells Farm in Kinross, died on September 18, 2022.

The 55-year-old died after an accident involving a John Deere utility vehicle.

The Crown Office and Procurator Fiscal Service (COPFS) lodged a First Notice to begin the court process for an FAI into the death.

A preliminary hearing is set for November 21, and the inquiry will be held on December 12.

Unlike criminal proceedings, FAIs are inquisitorial and are used to establish facts rather than to apportion blame.  

The purpose of a Fatal Accident Inquiry (FAI) includes determining the cause of Mr Taylor’s death, and the circumstances in which it occurred.

The inquiry will also establish 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.        

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.” 