Inquiry to be held at Lerwick Sheriff Court into death of fisherman
A FATAL Accident Inquiry (FAI) into the death of Edison (known locally as Joseph) Lacaste who died after falling overboard from a Lerwick registered trawler two years ago is to commence next month.
The Crown Office and Procurator Fiscal Service (COPFS) has now confirmed that a preliminary hearing will take place at Lerwick Sheriff Court on 19 May.
Edison Lacaste, a 45-year old Filipino national, died in the early hours of 18 February 2021 following an accident on board the Copious LK985 after falling overboard in adverse weather while the vessel was trawling.
The accident happened around 30 miles southeast of Sumburgh.
The Crown said that the inquiry will explore the circumstances of Lacaste’s death, with particular focus on the wearing of restraining straps on lifejackets and the legislation in relation to them.
Procurator Fiscal Katrina Parkes, who leads on death investigations for COPFS, said that unlike criminal proceedings, FAIs are inquisitorial in nature, and are used to establish facts rather than to apportion blame.
“The death of Edison Lacaste occurred while in the course of his employment and as such a Fatal Accident Inquiry is mandatory,” she added.
“Mr Lacaste’s family will continue to be kept informed of significant developments as court proceedings progress.”
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