Health and Safety Executive releases statement over tragic death of demolition worker Derek Russell

The Health and Safety Executive has released a statement after the death of tragic demolition worker Derek Russell - as a fundraiser in his memory has smashed its target.

The 36-year-old was badly hurt during an incident at the demolition site he was working at in Paisley, Renfrewshire, on Friday, January 9.

Derek, of Ardrossan, Ayrshire, was rushed to hospital but lost his fight for life on Saturday.

Police Scotland confirmed a probe into his death had been launched and that the Health and Safety Executive had been informed.

The Health and Safety Executive is a public body and is responsible for the encouragement, regulation and enforcement of workplace health, safety and welfare.

A spokesperson for the Health and Safety Executive said yesterday: "We are investigating this incident alongside Police Scotland."

The comment came as a fundraiser started in Derek's memory has smashed the £1,000 target set by the organiser.

More than £6,300 had been raised by 11am today, as generous souls donated to the father-of-six's funeral fund.

More than 220 people contributed to the fundraiser, which was launched by Stevenston-based Ardeer Thistle FC Youth Academy.

Derek's eldest son Kai plays for one of the club's teams, and a number of other youth clubs donated to the fundraiser.

The fundraiser said: "Ardeer Thistle FC Youth Academy are raising £1,000 to help with some of the funeral costs for one of our players and his family.

"On the 9th January Derek Russell was involved in a work accident and was rushed to hospital. On the 10th January Derek sadly passed away.

"Derek was a loving husband to Nicole & Fantastic dad to 6 amazing kids.

"Derek worked hard for his family and any donations would be greatly appreciated to help support his family at this tough time."

Kai also took to Facebook to pay tribute to his dad.

He wrote: "I’m lost for words. My dad was involved in a work accident that unfortunately ended in death after hours and hours of fighting. 

"My dad was a strong man that fought for what he loved and who he loved. 

"He was truly a great man and a great dad for all six children. Rest in peace dad. I love you, until we meet again, boss."

Euan Caskie, Director of Derek's employers, Caskie Demolition, 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, and his loss is felt by everyone who worked with him."

A Police Scotland spokesperson said: “Around 9.15am on Friday, 9 January, 2026, we were called to a demolition site on Waverley Road in Paisley after a man was injured.

“The 36-year-old man was taken to hospital for treatment, where he died on Saturday, 10 January, 2026.

“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."