A fatal accident inquiry (FAI) is set to take place in 2027 to examine the circumstances surrounding the death of a baby in Aberdeenshire. The inquiry was confirmed during a preliminary hearing, which established that the infant had been exposed to what have been described as "party" drugs at his home.

Under Scottish law, fatal accident inquiries are mandatory in certain circumstances, including deaths in custody or deaths occurring during the course of employment. In other cases, such as this one, they are held to determine the cause of death and to identify potential measures that could prevent future fatalities in similar situations. The inquiry process is intended to be a fact-finding exercise rather than a criminal trial, focusing on systemic issues or specific failures that may have contributed to the tragedy.

While the hearing confirmed the timeline for the inquiry, specific details regarding the identity of the child, the exact nature of the substances involved, or any potential criminal proceedings linked to the case were not disclosed in the initial reports. The inquiry will aim to provide clarity on the events leading up to the death and assess whether any preventative actions could have been taken by relevant authorities or individuals involved. Legal representatives and family members are expected to participate in the proceedings as the 2027 date approaches.