A grieving granddaughter has paid tribute to her 'amazing' grandfather after he died following a collision in Walsall. The 78-year-old man was struck by a car on Tuesday, and despite the best efforts of paramedics, he was pronounced dead at the scene.
The incident happened on the A454 Lichfield Road, near the junction with Green Lane, at around 1.30pm. Police have launched an appeal for witnesses and dashcam footage as they investigate the circumstances of the crash.
Devastating Loss
The victim's granddaughter, who has not been named, described her grandfather as a 'wonderful man' who was 'loved by everyone who knew him'. She said the family is 'completely devastated' by the sudden loss.
She added: 'He was the heart of our family. He had a smile that could light up a room and a heart of gold. We are all struggling to come to terms with the fact that he is gone.'
Police Appeal
West Midlands Police are asking anyone who was in the area at the time, or who may have dashcam footage, to come forward. Sergeant Lee Davies said: 'This was a tragic incident that has left a family devastated. We are determined to establish exactly what happened and would urge anyone with information to contact us.'
Officers are particularly keen to speak to the driver of a white van that was seen in the area, as they believe the driver may have witnessed the collision.
Community Response
The local community has expressed shock and sadness at the news. Flowers have been left at the scene as a mark of respect. Councillor John Smith, who represents the ward, said: 'This is a terrible tragedy. Our thoughts are with the family and friends of the man who died. We would urge anyone with information to assist the police in their investigation.'
Road safety campaigners have also called for improvements to the junction, citing previous accidents in the area. Data from the Department for Transport shows that there were 12 collisions on this stretch of road in the last three years, including two other serious incidents.
Investigation Underway
Police are continuing to investigate the cause of the crash. The road was closed for several hours while forensic examinations were carried out. Anyone with information is asked to contact West Midlands Police on 101, quoting log number 2345 of 12 March.
The family has requested privacy as they come to terms with their loss.
