4 firefighters hurt at scene of tragedy
their parents, Edwin and Yvonne, had also lost their daughter Karen, 59, in June.
She wrote on social media: “You’re in the arms of an angel. Karen will look out for you. RIP Bro.” She added: “2 kids. 9 weeks apart.”
Donald’s family said: “As a family, we are devastated by the sudden and tragic loss of Donald, a loving and proud dad, son, partner, brother, uncle and friend.
“No words could ever describe how much he will be missed by us all and there will always be a missing piece in our hearts.
“He was a kind, caring and genuine person who was never found without a smile on his face.
We know he will be deeply missed by all. Together we thank each and every one of you for your kind words and condolences but we kindly ask at this time that we have the chance to grieve privately as a family.”
Matheson yesterday clarified the logistics of the derailment, saying the driver was heading north and trying to return to Aberdeen when the train left the tracks.
It also emerged a member of the crew got out of the derailed train to stop any other trains further down the track.
Matheson said he did not want to speculate about what had caused the incident, but said:
“What I think we can assess, though, is that weather has had an impact. We are increasingly seeing a higher level of what are localised intense weather events that are having an impact on the transport network, including the rail network.
“What we need to do as part of the investigation is identify to what extent it had an impact and also to see what lessons can be learned.”
Network Rail boss Andrew Haines said: “It’s too early to draw conclusions but it is critical that we investigate thoroughly and with care, and work closely with rail safety authorities to make sure this can’t happen again.”
Scotland’s Lord Advocate James
Wolffe said Police Scotland, the British Transport Police and independent regulator the Office of Rail and Road have been asked to conduct a joint investigation.
It will be carried out under the direction of the Crown Office and Procurator Fiscal service, and will run alongside the safety probe by the Rail Accident Investigation Branch.
FOUR firefighters were injured in the response to the Stonehaven derailment tragedy. Scottish Fire and Rescue Service assistant chief officer Paul Stewart said: “It was a very difficult and hazardous scene and it remains so. “Four firefighters received minor injuries at the scene. Two attended hospital for a precautionary check-up and two remained at the scene. “It was a very hazardous scene but something the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service is able to manage and deal with.”