**Investigation Underway After Tragic Death of 16-Year-Old Kayden Moy in Beach Stabbing Incident**
The Ayrshire community has been left reeling after a 16-year-old boy, Kayden Moy from East Kilbride, lost his life following a violent incident at Irvine Beach on Saturday evening. Police Scotland have confirmed that a 17-year-old male has been arrested in connection with the event, which saw emergency services racing to the beach at around 6.45pm after reports of a large altercation.
Kayden, described by family and friends as a vibrant and much-loved young man, was discovered with serious injuries on the sand dunes by shocked onlookers. Immediate first aid was attempted by his friends, with teenagers providing CPR before paramedics arrived. Despite their desperate efforts and urgent medical attention at Crosshouse Hospital, Kayden tragically succumbed to his injuries and was pronounced dead on Sunday morning.
The incident has drawn widespread grief and calls for unity across the local area. Kayden’s father, Paul Moy, paid an emotional homage, describing his son as not just his eldest child, but his “best friend” and “main man.” Family members and local residents have continued to post tributes, with Kayden’s great-grandmother Helen Drummond expressing the devastation felt across generations: “Rest in peace our darling Kayden. You will always remain in our hearts.” Longstanding friends of the family joined in mourning, highlighting both the impact of Kayden’s death and the outpouring of community support.
Eyewitness accounts suggest that a sizable group of young people gathered at the beach that day, reportedly to take advantage of the warm weather. The relaxed atmosphere, however, was shattered by what has been described as a violent altercation. Social media footage from the scene, which has been handed to police, appears to show about 40 youths in the dunes immediately before the stabbing occurred. Detectives have since appealed for anyone with further phone or video evidence to come forward and assist as they try to piece together the precise series of events.
Detective Chief Inspector Campbell Jackson, leading the major investigation, outlined the ongoing nature of the inquiry: “We are conducting a comprehensive investigation into the circumstances of this terrible tragedy. Officers are supporting Kayden’s family during this difficult time and we are pressing for anyone with information or relevant footage to contact us.” A dedicated police portal has been established, allowing members of the public to submit material, which can be done anonymously in a bid to encourage sharing of potentially vital evidence.
In an effort to provide reassurance to an anxious community, local police have increased patrols in the area. Superintendent Jim McMillan reiterated the authorities’ commitment to both solving the case and addressing concerns: “This incident will understandably cause alarm within the community. We want to assure people that we are working tirelessly to identify all those involved, and extra officers will remain in place to support and engage with local residents.”
The tragedy has resonated beyond the immediate family, with Kayden’s former football club, Busby AFC, launching a fundraising campaign to support those left bereaved. The response was immediate and heartfelt, with nearly £1,000 raised within the first hour. The club, where Kayden’s grandfather volunteers and his brother continues to play, posted a moving statement: “Kayden was a cherished part of our youth set-up and his loss has deeply affected everyone involved. We hope the funds raised will provide some comfort to his family during this incredibly tough period.”
The broader context of violence among youths and the dangers presented by knives in public spaces remains a critical concern for reeling communities and authorities alike. This event, while tragic in its own right, joins a list of public incidents that have led to renewed calls for preventative measures and better resources for youth engagement and conflict resolution.
Police Scotland urges anyone with relevant information or footage to contact them via 101, quoting incident number 3106 of Saturday, 17 May 2025, or to report anonymously through Crimestoppers. As the investigation continues, the family and community of Kayden Moy are left mourning a young life lost and searching for answers in the aftermath of unspeakable violence.