Fatal Accident Inquiry proceedings launched into death of Angus woman

Jacqui Hunter died at Ninewells Hospital in Dundee in May 2020 following obstetrics complications after it was discovered her child had died in the womb a day earlier.

The first notice of a fatal accident inquiry (FAI) has now been lodged with the Crown Office and Procurator Fiscal Service (COPFS).

The purpose of an 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.     

It will explore the circumstances of Ms Hunter’s death, including the care and treatment received at the hospital and nearby Lochee Medical Practice, and to establish if her death could have been avoided.

Procurator Fiscal Andy Shanks, who leads on death investigations at the COPFS, said: “The death of Jacqui Hunter occurred in circumstances giving rise to significant public concern and as such a discretionary fatal accident inquiry will be held.

"The lodging of the first notice enables FAI proceedings to commence under the direction of the sheriff.”

A preliminary hearing has been set for August 23 at Dundee Sheriff Court.