Karen Murphy, 53, from Renton, died by drowning in the River Leven on 9 February 2020 after absconding from the McNair ward at Gartnavel Royal Hospital on 13 January.
A preliminary hearing is set for 1 September 2026 at Glasgow Sheriff Court.
The purpose of a Fatal Accident Inquiry (FAI) includes determining the cause of death; the circumstances in which the deaths 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.
This Inquiry will explore the circumstances of Karen Murphy’s death, the adequacy of her care planning and management while an inpatient. It will also consider the Police Scotland response to a telephone call she made on 13 January 2020 and the subsquent search after she left Gartnavel.
Andy Shanks, of the Crown Office and Procurator Fiscal Service, Scotland’s death investigation authority, said:
“The Lord Advocate considers that the tragic death of Karen Murphy occurred in circumstances giving rise to serious public concern and as such a discretionary Fatal Accident Inquiry should be held.
“The lodging of the First Notice enables FAI proceedings to commence under the direction of the Sheriff.
“Karen’s family will continue to be kept informed of significant developments as court proceedings progress.”
Further information
For more information on Fatal Accident Inquiries, see the Crown’s guide.