Aberdeen council to review practices after dead man locked in flat

Aberdeen City Council has said it will review its practices after a padlock was placed on the door of a flat while an undiscovered dead man lay inside.

Michael Stewart, 32, was discovered dead in his property on Friday 8 March by police carrying out a welfare check at the request of his mum. He had been dead for several weeks.

In February, a council worker padlocked the door following complaints about a broken lock barrel, but the flat was not checked beforehand.

A spokesperson for the council told the Press and Journal: “We have spoken to the family of Michael Stewart and our thoughts remain with all those affected by his death.

“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.

“We will continue to liaise with Mr Stewart’s family and provide support.”

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