Inquiry finds water death of Glasgow schoolboy could have been avoided
Kayden Walker became trapped while riverboarding on the River Tay in 2019
Last updated 27th Oct 2026
A Fatal Accident Inquiry's found the death of a 12-year-old boy and a man in separate incidents in Scottish waters could have been avoided.
It was held into the death of Kayden Walker, from Bridgeton, who became trapped while riverboarding on the River Tay in July, 2019; as well as 39-year-old Ruaridh Stevenson, who drowned after trying to help a client who experienced difficulties in the waters flowing through Dollar Glen, Stirling, in April, 2024.
It found precautions which might have prevented both deaths, and made recommendations aimed at improving safety in adventure water activities.
Glasgow-based Outdoor Pursuits Scotland Ltd was previously prosecuted for health and safety failings leading to Kayden's death.
The FAI, which took place at Falkirk Sheriff Court earlier this year, followed the prosecution of Outdoor Pursuits Scotland Ltd in October 2024 for a contravention of health-and-safety legislation which led to Kayden’s death. The company was fined £10,000.
In his determination published today, Sheriff Keith O'Mahony said that Kayden’s death could have been avoided if the group had exited the river upstream of Stanley Weir and re-entered downstream, and that one instructor could have remained above the weir and one below it, until every participant had safely passed through.
In relation to the death of Mr Stevenson, Mr O'Mahony found that the canyoning trip should not have entered the area of water in the prevailing conditions.
Debbie Carroll, of the Crown Office and Procurator Fiscal Service, Scotland’s death investigation authority, said: ”This determination identifies important lessons for the adventure activities sector and those responsible for its regulation and oversight.
“The sheriff’s findings highlight the importance of robust risk assessment, effective safety controls and careful management of site-specific hazards.
“Our thoughts remain with the families and friends of Kayden Walker and Ruaridh Stevenson.”
HSE and the UK Canyoning Association have been asked for comment.