Mr MacLachlan, a 58-year-old self-employed fisherman from the Isle of Luing, was pulled overboard from his creel fishing vessel Nista on 13 December 2023 after his foot became trapped in the back rope during deployment of the fishing gear.
A Preliminary Hearing is set for 29 May 2026 at Oban 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 Hugh MacLachlan 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 Hugh MacLachlan’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.