William Eichler 29 March 2019

Police investigate after council workers lock a body in apartment

A Scottish council has said it is supporting the police in their investigations after the body of Michael Stewart was locked into his apartment in Aberdeen.

Mr Stewart’s mother Jane Grant reported her son missing on 7 January after her other son David said he had not seen him for several weeks.

Council workers carried out a welfare check on Mr Stewart and padlocked his apartment, apparently unaware that his body was inside.

The 32-year-old, who suffered from epilepsy, was not found until police broke into his flat on 8 March.

The cause of death has not been confirmed but it is not being treated as suspicious.

An Aberdeen City Council spokesperson said: ‘We have spoken to the family of Michael Stewart and our thoughts remain with all those affected by his death.

‘A report has been submitted by Police Scotland to the Procurator Fiscal and Aberdeen City Council has supported police in their investigations.

‘We have carried out a review of the council’s actions and can confirm the property was locked in February following an insecure external door being reported.

‘We are committed to updating our procedures in relation to securing properties that are believed to be vacant.’

Half a century in the chamber image

Half a century in the chamber

Cllr Dr James Walsh was elected to Arun District Council in 1975. Here he tells LocalGov what he's learned about trust, transformation and keeping it local.
SIGN UP
For your free daily news bulletin
Highways jobs

Senior Practitioner - Children in Care - North Essex

Essex County Council
£48205.0000 - £57988.0000 per annum
Senior Practitioner - Children in Care - North EssexPermanent, Full Time£48,205 to £57,988 Per AnnumLocation
Recuriter: Essex County Council

Coroners Coordinator

Essex County Council
£25959.0000 - £26632.0000 per annum
Coroners CoordinatorPermanent, Full Time£25,959 to £26,632 per annum Location
Recuriter: Essex County Council

Adults Social Worker - Discharge to Assess

Essex County Council
£38487 - £51834 per annum
Interviews will be held in person at Rowan House, Colchester in late July 2026.This advert is open to Experienced Qualified Social Worker's About Our England, Essex, Colchester
Recuriter: Essex County Council

Senior Organisational Development Adviser

London Borough of Richmond upon Thames and London Borough of Wandsworth
43545 - 55992
Job Title
Recuriter: London Borough of Richmond upon Thames and London Borough of Wandsworth

School Crossing Patroller

London Borough of Richmond upon Thames and London Borough of Wandsworth
Pro Rata Salary - £5353,77
Job Title
Recuriter: London Borough of Richmond upon Thames and London Borough of Wandsworth
Linkedin Banner