A Glasgow pub has raised thousands of pounds in memory of a young bartender who died after a suspected brawl in the city centre. Daniel Colrain, 21, sustained serious injuries during a disturbance in Royal Exchange Square at around 3.05am on Sunday, October 5. He was rushed to hospital but died on Monday. A post-mortem examination took place on Tuesday, and his family, who are being supported by specialist officers, have asked for their privacy to be respected.
Colleagues pay tribute
Daniel worked at the Old Smiddy bar in Cathcart, in Glasgow's southside, where he grew up. Colleagues described him as a "dear friend" and set up a GoFundMe page for his family, which has raised over £14,000 in just a few hours.
In a statement on the page, they said: "We are completely heartbroken to share that our dear colleague and friend, Daniel, has passed away. To know Daniel was to experience his warmth and kindness first hand. Over the past three years at The Smiddy, he built wonderful friendships with every member of our staff and became a cherished part of our close-knit group."
Community memories
Regulars shared their memories on the pub's Facebook page. Michael Campbell wrote: "Daniel was a lovely big guy, not a bad bone in his body, just loved a laugh and a joke and all the Smiddy regulars loved a chat and a laugh with him. What a terrible shame that his young life was taken in such an unruly manner."
Danny Murray said: "Daniel was a credit to his parents and always had a smile on his face at his work. The world and Cathcart is a sadder place for his passing. It's just not fair." Nick Grundy Torrance added: "There can be no finer example of an absolutely decent and good hearted human being than him. Will be dearly missed in the hearts of many people from those who knew him closely to those who had experienced his personality in passing while ordering a drink. An absolute ray of light."
Police investigation
A 19-year-old man has been arrested in connection with the disturbance and released pending further enquiries. No one has yet been arrested in connection with the death. Another man, aged 21, was also assaulted and sustained minor injuries during the incident. A 20-year-old man has been arrested and charged in connection with this and is due to appear at Glasgow Sheriff Court at a later date.
Detective Inspector Jonny MacKinnon, of Greater Glasgow CID, said: "Our thoughts remain with Daniel’s family and friends at what is an extremely difficult time for them. I would like to reiterate that no arrests have been made in connection with the death at this time and extensive enquiries remain ongoing to establish the full circumstances. It is vital we get answers for Daniel's family so I would ask that anyone with any information, and has yet to speak to officers contact us on 101, quoting incident number 0494 of Sunday, October 4, 2026."
Chief Inspector Stephen McManus added: "We understand this incident will be concerning for the community but please be assured specialist officers are carrying out extensive enquiries. Increased patrols will be carried out in the area and anyone with any concerns, or information, can approach these officers."
