Investigation Launched into Prison Death of Margaret Fleming’s Murderer
An inquiry will be held regarding the death of Edward Cairney, convicted of murdering Margaret Fleming. Cairney, alongside Avril Jones, was sentenced to life imprisonment in 2019 for the brutal murder of Fleming, a woman with learning difficulties.
Background of the Case
Fleming was reported missing for two decades before it was determined that she had been murdered at their residence in Seacroft, Inverkip, between December 18, 1999, and January 5, 2000. Her remains have never been recovered.
The court revealed that Cairney and Jones had subjected Fleming to horrendous living conditions. Evidence indicated they tied her up, deprived her of food, and cut her hair short before killing her.
Benefits Fraud and Aftermath
- Avril Jones falsely claimed £182,000 in benefits until Fleming’s disappearance was reported in October 2016.
- Margaret Fleming would have been 38 years old at the time of the inquiry.
- Conditions in which she lived were described as “disgusting and uninhabitable.”
Details of the Fatal Accident Inquiry
Edward Cairney passed away at HMP Edinburgh on October 15, 2023, at the age of 82. Following his death, a Fatal Accident Inquiry (FAI) has been deemed necessary. The inquiry is set for March 30, 2026, at Edinburgh Sheriff Court.
Procurator Fiscal Andy Shanks indicated that the inquiry is mandatory since Cairney died while in custody. The First Notice has been filed to commence the FAI proceedings under the Sheriff’s direction.
