Father Dies After Family Says He Was Bitten by Venomous Spider He Bought on the Internet: ‘Life and Soul of the Party’

Father Passes Away Following Online Spider Purchase

A tragic incident has shaken a family in England, as a 38-year-old father of two lost his life after being bitten by a venomous spider he bought online. Mark Anthony Kirby, a resident of Prescot in Merseyside, passed away on August 2nd, leaving his loved ones in disbelief and mourning. Kirby’s ex-partner, Kayleigh Gill, shared details of his unexpected death with local newspaper The Liverpool Echo. According to Gill, Kirby had purchased pet spiders on the internet in the weeks leading up to the incident.

Gill recounted how Kirby began experiencing flu-like symptoms after being bitten by one of the spiders, following a trip to Scotland with family members. Despite feeling unwell, Kirby reportedly continued to participate in activities, such as pranking others during a dinner outing. Upon returning home on July 26th, Kirby’s condition worsened as he started complaining of fever and body aches. Gill mentioned that he called her sister on August 2nd, expressing difficulty in breathing before collapsing. Despite receiving medical attention, Kirby did not survive, and an official cause of death is yet to be determined.

The distressing news was shared by Kirby’s family through a Facebook post from Debbie Bennett Independent Funeral Directors, announcing his passing and funeral arrangements on August 19th. Gill described Kirby as a devoted father and a charismatic individual who always lit up any gathering. She expressed shock and sorrow over his sudden demise, attributing it to the spider bite. Gill revealed that Kirby had a fascination with the spiders he purchased online, even though she had advised him to seek medical help after the bite. She emphasised the dangers of online spider purchases and called for stricter regulations on owning such creatures.

In light of this tragic incident, it is essential to understand the potential risks associated with venomous spiders. While spider bites leading to fatalities are rare in the United States, certain species like the black widow and brown recluse can pose a threat to human health. Symptoms of a venomous spider bite may include sweating, fever, difficulty breathing, and localized pain. In the UK, where Kirby resided, there are numerous spider species, with a few capable of delivering harmful bites. The National History Museum advises caution when handling spiders and respecting their presence in the environment.

The untimely death of Mark Anthony Kirby serves as a stark reminder of the importance of safety and awareness when dealing with exotic pets or wildlife. His family and friends are left to grieve the loss of a beloved father and friend, whose vibrant personality will be deeply missed. As investigations continue into the circumstances surrounding Kirby’s passing, the community reflects on the preciousness of life and the need for responsible ownership of animals, including potentially dangerous species. May his memory be honoured, and may his loved ones find solace during this difficult time.