News

  1. FAI court process begins following the death of estate employee

    The Crown Office and Procurator Fiscal Service (COPFS) has lodged a First Notice to begin the court process for a Fatal Accident Inquiry (FAI) into the death of Sheena McLure. 

    15 Jul 2026 Death investigations
  2. Court process begins for the FAI into the death of a West Dunbartonshire woman

    The Crown Office and Procurator Fiscal Service (COPFS) has lodged a First Notice to begin the court process for a discretionary Fatal Accident Inquiry into the death of Karen Murphy.

    14 Jul 2026 Death investigations
  3. FAI court process begins for the death of a Borders farmer

    The Crown Office and Procurator Fiscal Service (COPFS) has lodged a First Notice to begin the court process for a Fatal Accident Inquiry (FAI) into the death of John Kirk. 

    01 Jul 2026 Death investigations
  4. Hate crime charges increases to new high

    The Lord Advocate, Ruth Charteris KC, has reaffirmed prosecutors’ commitment to tackling hate crime.

    30 Jun 2026 Statements
  5. FAI court process begins for the death of security guard at motorcycle rally

    The Crown Office and Procurator Fiscal Service (COPFS) has lodged a First Notice to begin the court process for a Fatal Accident Inquiry (FAI) into the death of Samuel Beaven.

    26 Jun 2026 Death investigations
  6. Prosecution statement following sentencing of Peter Murrell

    The Lord Advocate has acknowledged the conclusion of proceedings in the case against Peter Murrell and recognised the work of those involved in the investigation and prosecution.

    23 Jun 2026 Statements
  7. Learning Statement on the death of Harry Johnson

    This statement highlights changes made to Shetland Island Council’s winter road maintenance arrangements. Its purpose is to share learning openly and help prevent similar deaths in the future.

    19 Jun 2026 Death investigations
  8. New Lord Advocate pledges independence and focus on the public interest

    The newly appointed Lord Advocate has pledged to serve the public interest with independence and integrity as she takes office.

    19 Jun 2026 Statements
  9. FAI Determination with a precaution published following farmer’s death

    The Procurator Fiscal notes the conclusion of the Fatal Accident Inquiry into the death of Aberdeenshire farmer Gordon Chalmers.

    05 Jun 2026 Death investigations
  10. Lord Advocate reflects on her five-year tenure as she prepares to step down

    Dorothy Bain KC has commented on her time in one of the Great Offices of State. 

    20 May 2026 Statements