No probe into family who plunged to their deaths from tower block

CAMPAIGNERS have hit out at law chiefs for refusing to hold a Fatal Accident Inquiry into the deaths of a family who fell to their deaths from a tower block in North Glasgow.
By The Newsroom
Published 15th Aug 2012, 08:56 BST

This article contains affiliate links. We may earn a small commission on items purchased through this article, but that does not affect our editorial judgement.

Serguei Serykh (43), his wife Tatiana and stepson Stepan (19) died after falling from the 15th floor of the Red Road flats in March 2010.

It is believed the family had been told that their asylum application had been refused and they would have to leave their home on the day they died.

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

The Crown Office and Procurator Fiscal Service (COPFS) has announced that, following “extensive investigation”, it will not hold an inquiry into the deaths.

However, the charity Positive Action in Housing, who had written to the Lord Advocate to request an inquiry, has branded the decision

‘unacceptable’.

Charity director Robina Qureshi said: “Serguei Serykh was formerly a senior member of the Russian military intelligence who fled Russia and then Canada, and who, along with his family, was living in constant fear of return according to all accounts.

“The family fell to their deaths on May 7, 2010, from the 15th floor of the Red Road flats, Glasgow, on the same day that the UKBA stripped them of their accommodation and meagre state benefit.

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

“The UKBA also refused the family the right to paid work or even emergency shelter anywhere in the UK.

“We wanted the FAI to examine these questions in an open, transparent and accountable manner. Unfortunately, the Lord Advocate has decided there will be no scrutiny of the UKBA.”

A spokesperson for COPFS said: “The matter was reported to Crown Counsel who have fully considered all the circumstances and have concluded that it is not in the public interest to hold a FAI.

“In the course of the investigation, and in keeping with the European Convention on Human Rights, COPFS made contact with the nearest relative of the family and advised her of the circumstances and Crown Counsel’s decision.”

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

A UKBA spokesperson said: “Any death of this kind is a tragedy and our sympathies remain with their family and friends.

“The UKBA takes its international responsibilities seriously and we have a proud history of providing refuge to those in genuine need of our protection. Every case is carefully considered on its individual merits, examining all relevant information.”

* You can send us a comment by e-mail [email protected]

Alternatively you can call the newsdesk 0141 775 0040, find us on Facebook or visit us on Twitter

Or you can log in below and have you say on the site. Please note comments may be reprinted in the newspaper.