Fatal accident inquiry to be held after farmer died folloiwng tractor accident in Dumfries and Galloway

A fatal accident inquiry will examine the death of a farmer who was involved in a tractor accident in Dumfries and Galloway.

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

Mr McColm, 68, farmer and owner of Awhirk Farm in Ardwell, died on January 9, 2024, after an accident involving a tractor four days earlier.

A preliminary hearing is set for January 13, 2026, at Stranraer 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.    

Procurator Fiscal Andy Shanks, who leads on death investigations for COPFS, said: “The death of Brian McColm 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 McColm’s family will continue to be kept informed of significant developments as court proceedings progress.”  