An inquiry into the death of a gamekeeper after an all-terrain vehicle accident in Aberdeenshire is to be held. Matthew Burden, 36, died after the incident on the Tarland to Tillypronie road on 29 January 2022. The process to hold a fatal accident inquiry (FAI) is now under way, and a preliminary hearing will be held on 24 October at Aberdeen Sheriff Court.
The Crown Office and Procurator Fiscal Service (COPFS) said it was anticipated the FAI would consider the use of the seatbelt in the Can-AM Traxter and a "fault and knowledge of the fault with the driver’s door". It could also look at health and safety advice for all-terrain vehicles and the processes and procedures for maintenance and reporting faults.
Mr Burden, from the Tarland area, was employed as a gamekeeper by East Tillypronie Sporting Ltd. Procurator fiscal Andy Shanks, who leads on death investigations for COPFS, said: "The death of Matthew Burden occurred while in the course of his employment and as such a Fatal Accident Inquiry is mandatory.
“Mr Burden’s family will continue to be kept informed of significant developments as court proceedings progress.”
The Purpose of a Fatal Accident Inquiry
The purpose of a Fatal Accident Inquiry (FAI) includes determining the cause of death and the circumstances in which the deaths occurred. Unlike criminal proceedings, FAIs are inquisitorial in nature, and are used to establish facts rather than to apportion blame. They are meant to help prevent future deaths by identifying any reasonable precautions that could have been taken and could be implemented in the future to minimise the risk of similar deaths.
Looking into the Accident
The inquiry will be heard in Aberdeen Sheriff Court. It is expected to focus on the use of the seatbelt in the Can-AM Traxter, a fault and knowledge of the fault with the driver’s door, health and safety advice for all-terrain vehicles, and company processes and procedures for maintenance and reporting faults. The inquiry could help shed light on whether there were any shortcomings in safety protocols or procedures that could have contributed to the accident.
A Family Grieving a Loss
At the time of Mr Burden's death, he was described as “beloved” by relatives, who expressed their “devastation and sorrow”. This was a tragic loss for the family, and the inquiry will hopefully provide them with some answers and understanding about what happened.
Looking Forward: Preventing Future Accidents
The investigation into the death of Matthew Burden is not just about seeking answers; it's about ensuring that such accidents are prevented in the future. By examining the circumstances of the accident, the inquiry aims to identify any gaps in safety regulations or practices that could be addressed to protect others who work with all-terrain vehicles. The findings of the inquiry could have a significant impact on safety procedures within the gamekeeping profession and beyond, potentially leading to changes that could save lives. The results of the inquiry are eagerly awaited by all involved, particularly Mr. Burden's family and the wider community in Aberdeenshire. It will be a crucial step in understanding the tragedy and working towards preventing similar incidents from occurring in the future.
