Relatives desperate for answers almost four months after man was crushed to death in Caithness

Relatives of a man who was crushed to death in Caithness say they are desperate for answers almost four months on from the tragic accident.

It is understood that Stuart Young (63) was helping a friend to load scrap vehicles onto a trailer in the Altnabreac area in early April when he suffered fatal injuries.

Originally from Glasgow, Mr Young had been living in Thurso for about 15 years and was described as a well-loved person by family members who want to know the full circumstances of what happened.

Police say they are carrying out enquiries alongside the Health and Safety Executive (HSE).

Mr Young's sister, Moira McFarlane (60), who lives in Glasgow, said: “We just want the right answers. We can't fathom it out.”

She and her younger brother, Stephen Young (62), along with Stuart's partner, Cathy Wilson (62), travelled to Altnabreac soon after the accident which occurred on April 3.

“Stuart was one of the nicest people you could have met," Mrs McFarlane said. “The police were lovely and they knew how devastated we were.”

Mr Young had experienced mental health issues and had difficulties with his mobility. He had overcome a drink problem and had become a committed member of St Peter's and St Andrew's Church in Thurso.

“Stuart had demons, but had got by most of his demons and was a church-goer," Mrs McFarlane said. "He hadn't drunk for something like 10 years.

"The minister was very nice and said Stuart was a very well-liked person. They all loved him to bits. I hope we get answers.”

Stephen Young, who lives in Erskine, near Glasgow, said: "People in Thurso couldn't have done any more for my brother.

“If you'd met my brother you would be rolling about with laughter. He had the gift of the gab and was great with people – he was a people person.

“If you speak to anyone in Thurso who knew our Stuart they'll tell you what he was like. I just feel robbed.

“We just want to know the truth and then me and my sister can move on. Nothing is going to bring my brother back."

Ms Wilson said: “I've been married before and Stuart taught me so much that somebody out there can love you.

“He made me so happy. My kids and grandkids loved him so much.

"We want to know exactly what happened."

A Police Scotland spokesperson said: “Around 8.20pm on Saturday, April 3, 2021, officers were called to a report of a worker injured at a premises in Altnabreac.

“Emergency services attended and the 63-year-old man was pronounced dead at the scene.

“Enquiries into the incident are being carried out alongside the Health and Safety Executive. A report has been submitted to the procurator fiscal.”

A spokesperson for the Health and Safety Executive said: “HSE is investigating this fatality and will be preparing a report for the procurator fiscal when that investigation is complete.”

Mr Young was buried in Glasgow.

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