Tributes to father-of-six who died in demolition site incident

A father-of-six has been named as the worker who died in an accident at a demolition site in Renfrewshire.

Derek Russell was injured while working on a regeneration project involving demolishing empty flat blocks at Waverley Street in Paisley on Friday.

The 36-year-old was taken to Queen Elizabeth University Hospital in Glasgow but died from his injuries the following day.

His employer, Caskie Limited, said his loss would be felt by everyone who had worked with him.

Euan Caskie, a director of the company, said: “This is a deeply tragic incident, and our thoughts are with his partner, his six children, and his wider family at this incredibly difficult time.

“He was a respected and valued member of our team.”

An online crowdfunder to help with funeral costs for the family has been set up by Ardeer Thistle FC Youth Academy, the club one of his children plays for.

The club described him as a loving husband and fantastic dad.

They stated: “Derek worked hard for his family and any donations would be greatly appreciated to help support his family at this time.”

A large-scale emergency response, including police officers, fire crews and specialist ambulance teams, had attended the scene at about 09:15 on Friday, while a cordon was put in place around the part-demolished building and an excavator machine, sitting on top of a pile of rubble.

A Police Scotland spokesperson previously said: “An investigation into the circumstances remains ongoing and the Health and Safety Executive have been informed.

“A report will be submitted to the procurator fiscal in due course.”