Probe into death of tragic Scots gamekeeper killed in crash

Gamekeeper Matthew Peter Burden tragically died in February 2022
-Credit: (Image: Police Scotland)


A fatal accident inquiry into the death of a gamekeeper who was killed in a crash on an Aberdeenshire estate is to begin next month.

Matthew Peter Burden, 36, was involved in a collision while driving a Can-AM Traxter all-terrain vehicle between Tarland and Tillypronie on January 29, 2022.

The dad-of-three, was employed as a gamekeeper at East Tillypronie Sporting Ltd, Tillypronie Estate.

READ MORE:Scots woman who fractured baby's elbow has sentencing postponed to give birth

READ MORE:Huge £1.5m cannabis farm discovered after cops raid Scots nightclub

He was rushed to Aberdeen Royal Infirmary but passed away from his injuries on February 6.

The preliminary hearing has been set for October 24 at Aberdeen Sheriff Court.

It is understood the inquiry will consider the use of the seatbelt in the Can-AM Traxter and a fault and knowledge of the fault with the driver’s door, and health and safety advice for all-terrain vehicles. It will also look into company processes and procedures and maintenance and reporting faults.

Tributes were paid to the 'genuine and caring dad' who left behind his fiancee and three children.

A fundraiser was created at the time to support his family and loved ones following the tragedy.

Andrew Reid, who set up the page, said: "Mathew ( Matt ) Burden was involved in an accident on the 29th of January and tragically lost his fight for life on the 6th of February, aged only 36.

"Matt was a Gamekeeper and was a great friend to many in and out of the profession.

"He was genuine, funny, caring and would have done anything for anyone."

At the time of his passing, Matthew's family released an emotional statement through Police Scotland. They said: “It is with our deepest devastation and sorrow that we have to inform everybody of the passing our beloved Matt.

“Our family would appreciate some privacy at this time to come to terms with our grief.”

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.

“The lodging of the First Notice enables FAI proceedings to commence under the direction of the Sheriff.

“Mr Burden’s family will continue to be kept informed of significant developments as court proceedings progress.”

Don't miss the latest news from around Scotland and beyond. Sign up to our daily newsletter .