Hunt for hit-and-run driver after death of ‘gentle giant’

POLICE are hunting a hit-and-run driver who mowed down and killed popular supermarket worker Callum Steadman.

The 28-year-old was struck by the black BMW 320 as he crossed Fernclough Road in Harpurhey on Friday night.

He was taken to hospital but died later.

Tributes have been paid to Mr Steadman, an Asda worker from Harpurhey, who was described as ‘a loving guy who was always smiling.’

The United fan was affectionately known as ‘Spud.’

Police arrested two men, aged 18 and 29, on suspicion of causing death by dangerous driving after they walked into a police station but they were later released with no further action.

Officers are still looking for the driver of the stolen BMW which had false plates.

One friend of Callum, who asked not to be identified, described Mr Steadman as ‘a good lad’ who was well known in Harpurhey.

He said: “He was a really nice guy. I was absolutely gutted when I heard the news.

“I heard he had nipped out to the shop to get some change for a card game.

“For a young guy to get hit and killed like that’s awful. I think everyone should know what a good guy he was.”

Flowers have already been laid near the scene of the crash.

One tribute described Callum as a ‘gentle giant’ while another read: “To our wonderful nephew Callum. The gentle giant. You will forever missed.”

Lucy Carroll wrote on Facebook: “RIP Callum what a horrible cruel world we live in.”

Scott Percival wrote: “RIP Spud! Thoughts go out to your family. You was such a caring, funny, loving guy who was always smiling. God bless mate.”

Mr Steadman was crossing Fernclough Road with a friend when he was hit by the black BMW at around 8.15pm.

“It sped away from the scene, leaving Mr Steadman dying in the road.

The car was later found abandoned in nearby Clevedon Street.

Officers impounded the car which they believe was stolen in Lancashire on 22 November.

It was being forensically examined.

The car had false number plates showing registration FN13 WRP.

Sgt Lee Westhead said: “Two men who surrendered at a police station following the collision have been interviewed by officers and are now both being treated as Callum Steadman died after being hit by a BMW. Right: Flowers left at the scene witnesses. Both are assisting us fully and I can confirm that we are still searching for the driver of the vehicle at the time of the collision.

“I would like to thank the local community for the outstanding level of help and support they have provided my investigation team.

“Others with information should contact us as soon as possible.

“I would like to thank everyone for the patience so far, and also ask that you continue to be patient with us to let the investigative process run its course.

“I have this message for the driver - you know who you are, it is only a matter of time before you are found, come and speak to us now and do the right thing.”

Witnesses or anyone with information or dashcam footage are urged to call police on 0161 856 4741 or Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111.