A male individual has been detained in connection with the death of Gogglebox celebrity George Gilbey, who tragically fell to his death earlier this week.
Gilbey passed away at the age of 40 in what was initially described as an unusual ‘work accident’ in Shoebury, Southend-on-Sea on Wednesday morning.
Essex Police have not formally named the Channel 4 star but confirmed they were called to an incident after a man fell from a height and was injured. He died at the scene.
The area around EGL Homecare, where Gilbey worked, has been cordoned off while the investigation continues.
Now, a man in his 40s has been arrested on suspicion of gross negligence manslaughter in connection with the death of who died after a fall at work.
In a statement, the police said: ‘As part of our ongoing investigation into the death of a man in Campfield Road, Shoebury on Wednesday 27 March, we have arrested a man in their 40s from the Witham area on suspicion of gross negligence manslaughter.
‘This is a joint investigation with the Health and Safety Executive and our enquiries are ongoing.’
Gilbey’s death was confirmed by his sister who wrote on social media: ‘Rest in eternal paradise brother. Far too young but god only takes the best.’
He first appeared on Gogglebox in September 2013, alongside his mum Linda and late stepdad Pete, who passed away in 2021.
Gilbey appeared on Celebrity Big Brother and finished fourth then in 2016, the family returned to Gogglebox, with the star exiting two years later.
The family are said to be devastated by the loss, with a source telling The Sun: ‘This will hit his family very hard, especially Linda.’
Just days before the fall, Gilbey had been active on social media sharing that he was returning to the gym and getting active through swimming.
Signing off one of his updates, he said: ‘Love you all. See you on the other side. Got to buy some goggles, don’t like sore eyes.’
Tributes have since been paid, including from Gogglebox fans and Gilbey’s Celebrity Big Brother co-star Ricci Guarnaccio.
Ricci wrote on X: ‘Breaks my [heart] but @georgegilbey you are well and truely going to be missed my friend.
‘Always lit up the room, cared for others & the memories we made I’ll cherish for ever brother. From CBB to speaking to you last week, I’m going to hugely miss you ma boiii! Love you GG.’
In a statement shared with Metro.co.uk, a spokesperson for Gogglebox said: ‘George was part of the Gogglebox family for eight series alongside his mum Linda and step-dad Pete.
‘Our thoughts and deepest condolences are with Linda, and George’s family and friends at this very sad time. The family have asked for privacy.’
Check back shortly for further updates.
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