Authorities are investigating the tragic death of 23-year-old Joshua Robbins, who died after falling from his balcony in Holborn, London, as a potential case of corporate manslaughter. The investigation, initiated by the Metropolitan Police, follows a pre-inquest review that revealed details surrounding the incident, which occurred while Robbins awaited a takeaway delivery.
The Incident: A Fatal Fall
On 29 January 2026, Joshua Robbins had just ordered a pizza to share with his father when he leaned against the railings of his balcony at Holland and Thurston Dwellings. Eyewitness accounts suggest that the railings gave way, leading to his fatal fall. Tragically, his father, 49-year-old Will Robbins, witnessed the horrific event unfold.
Detective Inspector Mark Paterson, overseeing the investigation, confirmed that a thorough examination of the scene was conducted shortly after the incident. A forensic engineer was called in to assess the structural integrity of the balcony, and CCTV footage has been retrieved to aid the inquiry.
Ongoing Investigation and Cooperation
During the pre-inquest review at St Pancras Coroner’s Court, DI Paterson provided updates on the ongoing investigation. “A lot of the material is held by the Islington and Shoreditch Housing Association (ISHA), who are fully compliant with our requests,” he stated. The police are also collaborating closely with the Crown Prosecution Service as they gather evidence to establish the circumstances surrounding Robbins’ death.
The court has scheduled a follow-up review for January 6, 2027, as DI Paterson expressed his intention to provide the court with additional findings by that time.
A Mother’s Quest for Justice
Fiona Garrett, Joshua’s mother, has taken up the mantle of advocating for answers surrounding her son’s tragic death. Describing the emotional toll on her family, she remarked that her ex-husband is “extremely traumatised” by the ordeal. Residing in Claudy, Co Londonderry, but originally from Essex, Fiona has reached out to her local MP, Sir Keir Starmer, seeking a meeting to discuss her campaign for justice.
Fiona expressed her gratitude for the prompt response from Starmer, stating, “They came back straight away and they were like ‘we want to help’.” She described the correspondence as genuine and comforting, sharing, “It did seem really genuine. When I showed Will, he was just like, ‘oh my god the prime minister knows who our son was.’”
Support for the Family
The Metropolitan Police have assured that they are maintaining communication with Joshua’s family, providing them with regular updates and support from specialist officers. In light of the investigation’s complexities, they have emphasised the importance of thoroughness, acknowledging that such enquiries can take time.
As the family continues to grapple with their loss, Fiona’s dedication to ensuring that her son’s life and death are not forgotten serves as a poignant reminder of the human impact behind the statistics of such tragedies.
Why it Matters
This investigation highlights critical safety concerns regarding the structural integrity of residential buildings and the responsibilities of housing associations. Joshua Robbins’ tragic death is not just a statistic; it underscores the urgent need for accountability in building maintenance and safety regulations. As families like the Robbins seek justice, the case may prompt wider discussions about housing safety standards and the obligations of landlords to ensure tenant safety. It is a stark reminder that behind every tragic incident lies a family longing for answers and justice.
