Derek Russell died in hospital after the tragic incident in the town.
A man who died in a tragic incident at a demolition site in Paisley has been named by his family.
Derek Russell, 36, died after the incident on Waverley Road in the Foxbar area of the town on Friday morning.
A trauma team including three ambulances, three fire engines and dozens of police officers were dispatched to the scene and Derek was rushed to the Queen Elizabeth University Hospital in Glasgow. Sadly he could not be saved and died on Saturday, January 10, police confirmed.
A police cordon was put in place around the area following the incident, with the public being asked to avoid the area. An image shows a number of emergency service vehicles at the scene near a partly demolished building and a large JCB-type digger.
Derek’s family lined up to pay tribute after the popular Rangers fan’s death was announced. His son Kai described him and someone who fought for the people he loved.
He said: “I’m lost for words to be honest. Yesterday morning 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 to all six of his children. Rest in peace, dad. I love you, until we meet again, boss.”
Derek’s dad, Robert, shared a picture as he held his son’s hand in his final moments.
He said: “How we get through this, I haven’t the answers. Hold my hand, son. Dad needs you more than anything.”
Nicole Strachan had six children with Derek and promised she would be strong and continue to do her best for the kids.
She said: “We went through so much in life together, Derek, but six wonderful kids together was definitely our biggest achievement.
“20 years feel like nothing now compared to living another 20 without you. I promise I will be strong and carry on raising our kids.
“I will be there for us both. Its going to be so hard without you. Love you forever and always, Dec.”
Derek’s sister, Annette, said: “Fly high wee brother. Until we meet again. keep me a space up there.”
A Police Scotland spokeswoman 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.”
