A tragic accident claimed the life of a 23-year-old man when a railing gave way as he leaned over it to check for a pizza delivery. Joshua Robbins died after falling from the fifth floor at Thurston Dwellings on Newton Street in London last Thursday.
Originally from Claudy, Northern Ireland, Robbins had moved to London a decade ago in search of better opportunities. According to his family, he responded to a buzz at the flat, believing it was the pizza he had ordered.
Tragically, as Robbins stepped out onto the communal landing to look over the railing, the structure collapsed, leading to his fatal fall. He was living with his father in the city at the time of the incident, which occurred shortly after 8:30 p.m.
In a heartfelt joint statement, Robbins’ father, Will Robbins, and Ms. Garrett expressed their profound grief, stating, “We are absolutely devastated. Josh fell from a height of five floors and died on impact.”
Mr Robbins, who had moved to London ten years ago ‘to seek opportunity’ and was living with his father, fell to his death shortly after 8.30pm.
In a joint statement, Ms Garrett and Joshua’s father, Will Robbins, said they were ‘absolutely devastated’, adding: ‘Josh fell from a height of five floors and died on impact.
‘Josh’s father Will witnessed the immediate aftermath of his son’s fall, something no parent should ever have to see. He is deeply traumatised by what he witnessed.
‘This is not an allegation or speculation. The railing gave way. Our son did not climb it or behave recklessly. A safety barrier that was meant to prevent a fall gave way, with catastrophic consequences.
Joshua Robbins, 23, died instantly after he plunged five floors at Thurston Dwellings on Newton Street, London
‘Josh was a happy, go-lucky young man who loved life. He loved playing games online with friends and staying connected to people, wherever he was.
‘Growing up in Claudy, Josh loved the craic at the GAA [Gaelic Athletic Assocation] pitch. He didn’t play for a team, but that never stopped him being the best supporter.
‘He had a smile that lit up every room and was widely described as kind, funny, and full of charisma, with impeccable manners and an ease with people that made him instantly likeable.’
They continued: ‘Our family is absolutely devastated. We have lost our son. We should not be planning a cremation.
‘We should not be waiting for pathology reports. We should not be writing statements like this or trying to navigate trauma and bureaucracy at the same time.’
Mr Robbins’ parents said they will be in touch with police and Islington and Shoreditch Housing Association as they seek answers about their son’s death.
They are currently being supported by The Katie Trust, a charity which supports families affected by sudden deaths.
In an emotional video posted to social media on Tuesday, Ms Garrett, who has travelled to London since the incident, added: ‘No-one should have to make these decisions. No-one with a child should be dealing with pathologists on their behalf.
Mr Robbins died instantly after plunging five floors to the ground, his family has said
‘No-one should be thinking about whether to bury or cremate their child.
‘No-one should be thinking about him being on his own in a mortuary, and if he’s comfortable, and realising how stupid that sounds, that he’s on his own.’
She said: ‘His name was Josh Robbins, and he was valuable and he deserved better.’
Tributes have poured in for Mr Robbins, with a former teacher at St Colmcille’s Primary School saying: ‘I was so sorry to hear this awful news today. I have lovely memories of Josh in my class – my thoughts and prayers are with you.’
Friends described him in online tributes as ‘a gentleman and a ray of sunshine’ and a ‘most lovely little boy who just made you smile’.
Sharing news of Mr Robbins’ death on social media, a spokesperson for The Katie Trust said: ‘Our thoughts are with FiFi Garrett and Will at this time. Fi is a valued member of The Katie Trust.
‘This is a shocking tragedy that should never have happened.’
Ms Garrett is employed by The Katie Trust as the Political and Stakeholder Engagement Manager.
A spokesperson from the Met Police said: ‘Police were called on Thursday, 29 January at 20:19hrs to Newton Street, WC2 following reports of a fall from height.
‘Met officers attended the scene alongside the London Ambulance Service who treated a 23-year-old man on scene.
‘Sadly, despite the best efforts of the emergency services, he was pronounced dead.
‘His next of kin has been informed, they are being supported by specialist officers.
‘The circumstances surrounding his death remain ongoing.
‘If you have any information which could assist the investigation, please contact police by calling 101 stating CAD7119/29Jan. You can also call Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 to remain anonymous.’
The Mail has contacted Islington and Shoreditch Housing Association for comment.
