Airdrie & Coatbridge Advertiser
Family mourns for Connor (21)
Tragedy sparks witness appeal
The heartbroken family of a Coatbridge- born man whose life was tragically cut short have spoken of their “monumental loss”.
Connor McDade, 21, sadly passed away during the early hours of last Monday morning, April 23, nine days after he was struck by a car on a bridge in Newcastle.
Former St Mary’s Primary School pupil Connor moved to Hartlepool from Coatbridge when he was a young boy, but regularly returned to visit family in his home town.
He was struck by a vehicle on the Tyne Bridge and was surrounded by his loved ones when he lost his fight for life at Newcastle’s Royal Victoria Infirmary Hospital.
Just hours after his death, the hashtag #oddssocksforconnor was launched on Twitter in tribute to the hugely popular young man.
A family spokesperson explained: “Connor’s motto was ‘life is too short for matching socks’, which was more than a penchant for non-matching footwear.
“It was a metaphor for living life to the fullest, not dwelling on hatred and not wasting time on irrelevance.”
Boxing-mad Connor got to meet his hero, unified heavyweight champion Anthony Joshua, late last year and also “fulfilled a dream” by engaging in a sparring session with Coatbridge’s own boxing legend Ricky Burns back in 2010.
The family spokesperson added: “Connor had very special links to Coatbridge.
“Both of his parents were born and raised in the town and Connor was a much- loved son, brother, nephew, cousin and grandson.
“We would like to thank the remarkable nurses and blood and transplant staff at the Royal Victoria Infirmary Hospital who did everything they could to help save Connor.”
Connor is survived by his dad John, stepmother Gillian, gran Betty Docherty, brothers JD and Mark McDade, uncles John and Peter Docherty, aunties Jerry, Sadie and Mary and “countless cousins”.
Northumbria Police said a driver was assisting them with their inquiries into Connor’s death and have appealed for witnesses to the tragic incident.
Following Connor’s death, senior investigating officer Sergeant Paul McIntosh said: “This has been an incredibly difficult few weeks for the family. We want to pass our condolences on to Connor’s family and friends. Our team of specialist officers are with the family at this devastating time and will continue to offer support and guidance.”