FAMILY TRIBUTE TO JOSHUA WHO DIED AFTER A HIT AND RUN CRASH IN TOWN CENTRE

Police hunting van driver who failed to stop following crossing collision

THE devastated family of a 23-year-old pedestrian killed in a hit-and-run crash have paid tribute to their loved-one.

Trainee accountant Joshua Spender was struck by a white van on the pedestrian crossing on Macon Way, in Crewe, during rush-hour on Friday.

He later lost his fight for life in hospital.

The driver involved in the fatal collision fled the scene.

Detectives hunting for the motorist are now trying to trace a white van which has a black side window and sliding door.

It has emerged that Crewe Alexandra fan Joshua, inset, who lived in Crewe, had also attended Cheshire College South and West and had worked at the town’s Leighton Hospital for four years.

In a statement, his family said: “Joshua, aged 23, died on Friday, November 5 following a fatal road traffic accident. “He had lived in Crewe with his loving family all of his life and was a devoted son, grandson, brother and friend to many. “Joshua loved going to watch Crewe Alex with his dad, enjoyed reading books and travelling.

“He was so loved and no words can describe how much he will truly be missed by all his family and friends, having been so suddenly taken from us.

“He was considerate, caring and had a good sense of humour. “We, as a family, are devastated that we have lost Joshua in such tragic circumstances.’’

The collision happened at 5.30pm on Friday evening and the road remained closed until 9pm. Floral tributes and a Crewe Alexandra scarf have been left at the crash scene by well-wishers.

A police spokesman said: “We are working around the clock to try to trace the driver.

“The van failed to stop at the scene and would have significant front end damage.

“Anyone who has seen a white van with front end damage, or has been asked to fix a van with this damage, should contact the police.”

Sergeant Simon Degg, from Cheshire Police’s serious collision investigation unit, said: “Officers and detectives have been making extensive inquiries into this tragic incident and specialist officers are supporting the family who have been left distraught.

“If you recognise this van, I would urge you to get in touch, for the sake of the family.

“If you have any information that may help, or you are the driver of the vehicle, please come forward and help us with our inquiries.”

Anyone with any information should call police on 101, quoting IML 1125388, or call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111.