What happened to the man in Glasgow?

A man named Colin Shaw suffered severe, life-changing injuries when a lamppost fell on him outside Kelvinside Academy in Glasgow.

Who is responsible for the Glasgow lamppost incident?

Glasgow City Council has admitted health and safety breaches for failing to properly inspect the lamppost that fell.

When did the lamppost fall outside Kelvinside Academy?

The lamppost fell outside Kelvinside Academy on June 20, 2023.

Home / Disasters and Accidents / Glasgow Lamppost Fall: Man's Life Changed Forever

Glasgow Lamppost Fall: Man's Life Changed Forever

9 Dec, 2025

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Summary

A lamppost fell on a man outside Kelvinside Academy on June 20, 2023.
The council admitted health and safety breaches over the poorly inspected lamppost.
The man suffered severe, life-changing injuries including spinal and leg fractures.

Glasgow Lamppost Fall: Man's Life Changed Forever

A devastating incident occurred outside Glasgow's Kelvinside Academy on June 20, 2023, when a lamppost tragically fell on Colin Shaw, 50. The heavy structure pinned him to the ground, resulting in life-changing injuries. Shaw sustained multiple fractures to his spine and tibia, necessitating two surgeries and leaving one leg shorter than the other. The former active man now suffers from flashbacks, impacting his mental well-being.

Investigations revealed the lamppost, twice its operational lifespan, had not been properly inspected and was in poor condition. Glasgow City Council has pleaded guilty to health and safety breaches. The council has issued an apology to Mr. Shaw, acknowledging the failure in inspection and assuring that their street lighting maintenance procedures have since been updated and enhanced.