Ayrshire man’s ‘tombstoning’ death at quarry ‘could not have been prevented’ despite report to cops earlier that day
Dad-of-one Mark O'Brien, 28, tombstoned at the Craigiehill beauty spot back in May. Police had been contacted earlier in the afternoon but were not requested in attendance until after the tragic incident
THE death of a dad who died 'tombstoning' at Ayrshire quarry 'could not have been prevented' despite a report to cops earlier in the day, a report has revealed.
Tragic Mark O’Brien, 28, tombstoned at the Craigiehill beauty spot in Ayrshire back in May at around 8.30pm.
Cops had been called by Hillhouse Quarry Group, supervisors of the area, regarding safety concerns earlier in the day.
But the report was found that there was "no evidence" to suggest that had cops attended, Mark O'Brien's death could have been prevented.
The PIRC report found that the force had responded in an "appropriate and proportionate" manner.
Police received a call from HQG bosses before 3pm earlier on the day of O'Brien's death but revealed no officer was asked to attend the area because there was "no indication that anyone was at the quarry at that time."
The PIRC report also found that Hillhouse Quarry Group had "sole responsibility for its safety and security" and that they had thrown up fencing and warning signs to keep people out of the water.
Dad-of-one Mark disappeared beneath the surface after hurling himself 40ft off cliffs.
Horrified pals alerted mercy crews and a major manhunt was launched at 9pm.
Witnesses reported divers and four boats trawling the water before his body was plucked out three hours later.
The tragedy came as footage emerged of two maniacs tombstoning at the quarry as crowds cheer them on.
Locals said the hotspot near Kilmarnock attracted adrenaline junkies during a heatwave.
They claimed it was too easy to gain access and entrance signs warning of “deep water” were ignored.
Mark — nicknamed Sparky — is survived by sisters Christina, 43, Rose, 40, Donna, 35, and Nichola, 32, plus brother Kevin, 33.
Heartfelt tributes paid to Craigiehill Quarry dad Mark O’Brien after jump tragedy at Kilmarnock beauty spot
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A close relative said at the time: “The family are absolutely devastated. They can barely take it in. His sisters and brother need time to grieve.”
She added: “It’s common knowledge the quarry is dangerous. Everyone who goes knows that.”
Pal David Nicol wrote on Facebook: “Cannot believe you’re gone — one of the best. Heartbroken.”
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