Death investigations

FAI Determination published after Glenochil prisoner death

The Crown Office and Procurator Fiscal Service (COPFS) notes the determination in the Fatal Accident Inquiry into the death of 81 year-old William MacDowell.

William MacDowell, an inmate within HMP Glenochil, had been receiving palliative care while in custody. As his health deteriorated, he was transferred to Forth Valley Royal Hospital on 7 February 2023, where he died on 15 February 2023. 

Mr MacDowell died while in legal custody and in the care of the state. As such his death was investigated by the Crown Office and Procurator Fiscal Service and a mandatory Fatal Accident Inquiry was held. 

The Procurator Fiscal, who acts in the public interest in such Inquiry, presented evidence on the facts and circumstances of Mr MacDowell's death. 

Following the publication of the determination, Andy Shanks of the Crown Office and Procurator Fiscal Service, Scotland’s death investigation authority, said:  

“We note the Sheriff’s determination. 

“The Procurator Fiscal ensured that the full facts and circumstances of Mr MacDowell’s death were presented in evidence at the mandatory Fatal Accident Inquiry." 

Further information

For more information on Fatal Accident Inquiries see the Crown’s guide.