'Much-loved father' dies following altercation in Scarborough as family issue emotional tribute
An emotional tribute has been paid to a “much-loved” father who has died following an altercation in Scarborough.
Damon Nicky John O’Nions-Cairns, 40, died in hospital on Tuesday (January 13), North Yorkshire Police have confirmed.
He suffered critical head injuries during an incident on December 30, 2025, on the crossroad of Longwestgate, Auborough Street, Cross Street and Friars Way.
A statement issued by his family read: “Damon was born in Bridlington and joined his brother and sister, then another sister came along. He enjoyed going fishing with his father. He was a little tearaway at school. He had a heart of gold but struggled with mental illness.
“He would help anybody especially elderly folk who he treated with respect. He was a much-loved son, brother, uncle, grandson, husband and father and this tragedy has broken the family’s hearts.
“Please can you give his family and friends time to grieve his loss in their own way.”
Leon Upson, 19, appeared at York Magistrates’ Court on January 5 charged with grievous bodily harm with intent, and possession of Class A (cocaine) and Class B (cannabis) drugs.
He was remanded in custody ahead of a plea and trial preparation hearing at York Crown Court on February 9 at 10.30am.
A 34-year-old woman and a 19-year-old man, both from Scarborough, were also arrested in connection with the investigation. They have both been released under investigation and conditional bail.