The long-awaited inquiry into the tragic Stonehaven train derailment is finally set to begin. Three lives were lost in this devastating incident, and the upcoming hearings promise to uncover critical details about what went wrong. What do you hope this inquiry will reveal?
The long-anticipated fatal accident inquiry into the tragic Stonehaven train derailment, an incident that claimed three lives, is now scheduled to commence in January, marking a pivotal step towards understanding the full circumstances of the 2020 disaster. This crucial judicial process aims to thoroughly examine the factors leading to the devastating crash near Carmont, Aberdeenshire, and is expected to provide much-needed clarity for the victims’ families and the wider public.
On August 12, 2020, the nation mourned the loss of train driver Brett McCullough, 45, conductor Donald Dinnie, 58, and passenger Christopher Stuchbury, 62, who tragically perished in the derailment. Additionally, six other individuals sustained injuries, underscoring the severe impact of the incident on all involved. The memories of these lives lost continue to fuel the pursuit of justice and improved rail safety standards.
During a recent preliminary hearing, conducted virtually from Aberdeen Sheriff Court, the Crown, represented by Alex Prentice KC, provided updates on the preparations for the inquiry. Initial estimates for the duration of the proceedings have been significantly revised, with the inquiry now expected to span approximately four weeks, a notable reduction from the eight weeks previously considered, indicating focused progress in pre-inquiry work.
Sheriff Principal Jennifer Johnston, overseeing the judicial process, expressed satisfaction with the advancements made, particularly highlighting the narrowed timeline. Lawyers representing the various participants have been asked to provisionally reserve specific dates in January and February next year for the inquiry, with final confirmation anticipated at a subsequent hearing, ensuring all parties are prepared for the intensive schedule.
A comprehensive report by the Rail Accident Investigation Branch (RAIB), released in March 2022, played a significant role in shedding light on the potential causes of the Stonehaven derailment. This critical document highlighted serious flaws in a drainage system installed by Carillion, suggesting that its construction was inadequate to manage the intense rainfall that deluged the area on the morning of the crash.
The RAIB report detailed crucial systemic failures, including the inability to adequately inform the train driver about the unsafe conditions. Specifically, there was a failure to caution the driver against maintaining a speed of 75mph or to advise a reduction in speed, despite the severe weather conditions prevailing on the day of the fatal train accident. These findings are expected to be central to the forthcoming inquiry.
The deficiencies in the drainage system’s construction are central to understanding the circumstances that led to the Stonehaven tragedy. The inability of the infrastructure to cope with adverse weather directly contributed to the hazardous track conditions, ultimately resulting in the catastrophic derailment. The inquiry will meticulously examine these infrastructure failures and their broader implications for rail safety.
Looking ahead, a further preliminary hearing is scheduled for September 24. This session will be crucial in determining precisely how the detailed findings and conclusions of the RAIB report will be presented and utilized during the main inquiry, ensuring all relevant technical and investigative evidence informs the judicial proceedings effectively. The thorough examination of this evidence is paramount to uncovering the truth.
