Saltcoats Harbour: Man dies after emergency response to male in water

It is understood there are not thought to be any suspicious circumstances surrounding his death.

A massive emergency response was prompted last night, May 3, after concern was raised for a male spotted in the water.

A coastguard helicopter was seen landing next to the water, off Seaview Road, and was later seen searching around The Braes area, flying only metres from the water.

The helicopter was first seen at Seaview Road, then moved around to Saltcoats Harbour. (Image: Submitted)

Several boats was also seen out in the area during that time.

There was also a large presence from the police, fire and ambulance emergency services, with several vehicles parked up around Seaview Road.

The Scottish Ambulance Service (SAS) have now confirmed that they were responding to reports of concern for a man within the water of Saltcoats Harbour.

The SAS confirmed that they sent a number of specialist units to the incident, including an air ambulance, and the man was taken to Crosshouse Hospital after being recovered from the water.

A SAS spokesperson said: “We received a call at 20:44 on Wednesday May 3, 2023 to attend an incident at Saltcoats Harbour.

"An ambulance, three specialist operations response teams (SORT), a resuscitation rapid response unit (3RU) and an air ambulance were dispatched to the scene.

"One patient was transported to University Hospital Crosshouse.”

Though police later confirmed that the man, who was 66-years-old, later passed away.

​A Police Scotland spokesperson confirmed: “Around 8.35pm on Wednesday, May 3, 2023, police received a report of concern for a man within the water, off Saltcoats Harbour.

"A 66-year-old man was taken to hospital, where he subsequently died.

"Next of kin are aware and there are no suspicious circumstances.”

The Coastguard service have also been approached for comment.