A 32-year-old offshore worker has tragically died on a drilling rig in the North Sea, with police launching an investigation into the matter. Lee Hulse from Torry in Scotland died in the early hours of Friday (November 14) while working on the Valaris 121 oil platform, off the coast of Aberdeen.
It is believed that the former Torry Academy pupil died after falling from a crane, reports Daily Record. The Health and Safety Executive (HSE), which flew out to the platform alongside Police Scotland following his death, is now carrying out a detailed investigation. Police Scotland confirmed the death is not being treated as suspicious.
A spokesperson said: “Around 4.40am on Friday, November 14, we received a report of the death of a 32-year-old man on a drilling rig in the North Sea. The death is not being treated as suspicious.”
A HSE spokesperson said: “We are aware of the incident and will be investigating alongside Police Scotland.”
A Valaris spokesperson said: “Valaris regrets to inform that a crew member onboard its Valaris 121 jack up drilling rig has sadly died as a result of an incident in the early hours of Friday November 14. Their next of kin has been informed and Valaris is offering support to them at this difficult time.
“All remaining personnel onboard the V121 at the time of the incident have been safely accounted for. Valaris’ priority is the safety and wellbeing of all personnel. Operations on the V121 have been temporarily halted.”
Sharing a tribute, his former football team, Golden Tee FC, wrote: “Everyone at the Golden Tee FC are devastated to hear about the tragic loss of our ex player, captain & friend Lee Hulse.
“‘Hulsey’ was a committed & passionate player but more importantly was a fantastic person, partner and father.”
A GoFundMe page has been set up to support Lee’s grieving family. A statement on the fundraiser read: “Tragically and very suddenly, Lee has lost his life. Leaving behind his family, who loved him the most. No family partner or friends are ever prepared for this type of loss.
“Lee always looked after his family and all his friends, so this is our turn to make sure we look after him and give him the best send-off that he deserves, and make sure his child is well looked after. Christmas is also approaching, and I want it to be one less thing for them to worry about.”
