A man tragically passed away suddenly after being bitten by a potentially venomous pet spider that he had recently bought online, according to his ex-partner. Mark Anthony Kirby, aged 38, from Prescot, Merseyside, died on August 2. His former partner, Kayleigh Gill, revealed that he had purchased the spider a few weeks prior. Kayleigh, who is the mother of their children, recounted how Mark had shown signs of illness during a trip to Scotland with her, her partner, and sister.

Despite displaying flu-like symptoms, such as temperature fluctuations and body aches, Mark continued to joke around while dining at Toby Carvery before returning home on July 26. The following week, his condition worsened, with complaints of breathing difficulties leading to a distressing call to Kayleigh’s sister, Kath, who lived nearby. Despite efforts to assist him, Mark collapsed before paramedics arrived, and he could not be revived.

Describing Mark as a humorous, caring, and sociable individual, Kayleigh reminisced about their 16-year relationship and his role as a devoted father to their children. She expressed shock over his sudden death and attributed it to the spider bite, as the post-mortem examination has yet to determine the exact cause.

Kayleigh emphasized the need for stricter regulations on online pet purchases, especially concerning potentially dangerous creatures like the spider that Mark acquired. Mark’s untimely demise has left behind his son Nathan-Mark, 18, and daughter Kimmy-Louise, 17.