Second Fatality in Four Years at Edinburgh’s FirstStage Studios During 'Dept. Q' Teardown

Key points

• An unnamed crew member died at FirstStage Studios in Edinburgh on November 12, 2026, after being seriously injured.
• The incident occurred during the dismantling of sets for 'Dept. Q' Season 2, which had wrapped principal filming approximately two weeks prior.
• Police Scotland confirmed the death is not being treated as suspicious, though investigations into the circumstances are ongoing.
• Left Bank Pictures, the production company, expressed shock and stated they are supporting the victim's family and colleagues.
• This is the second fatality at FirstStage Studios in four years, following the death of Philip Ross in 2022, which is still under a Fatal Accident Inquiry.

Background

FirstStage Studios, located in the Leith area of Edinburgh, has hosted major productions including 'The Rig' and 'The Outrun.' The facility, converted from a former engineering site, has faced scrutiny regarding safety after the 2022 death of Philip Ross, a contractor working on 'The Outrun,' which involved a hydraulic lift. 'Dept. Q,' produced by Left Bank Pictures and starring Matthew Goode, has been a significant hit for Netflix outside the U.S., with Season 1 premiering in May 2025 and Season 2 filming in Scotland over the past four months.

How outlets are covering it

All outlets report the basic facts of the death and the non-suspicious nature of the incident. However, The Scotsman and E! News emphasize the historical context of the 2022 fatality at the same location, highlighting a pattern of safety concerns. Deadline and The Independent focus more on the immediate response from production companies and police, noting that the incident occurred during post-production teardown rather than active filming. The Health and Safety Executive is liaising with police and the Crown Office, indicating a formal regulatory review.

Why it matters

The incident raises serious questions about safety protocols at major UK film studios, particularly given the previous fatality at the same site. It may lead to increased scrutiny of set dismantling procedures and safety standards for high-profile productions like 'Dept. Q.'

What to watch

Police Scotland and the Health and Safety Executive are expected to continue their inquiries to determine the full circumstances of the incident. Left Bank Pictures and FirstStage Studios may face further scrutiny or regulatory action depending on the findings of the investigation.