Wife pays tribute to man killed in Hebden Bridge crash

Claire Smith has appealed for witnesses to the crash, which killed father-of-four Chris Smith, to come forward.

Mrs Smith, of Bank Foot Terrace, Hebden Bridge, said: “He was a gem, just a funny guy. He loved everybody and he didn’t have a bad bone in his body.

“I’m just numb. I’m absolutely in shock.

“If anybody was witness to this incident could they please contact the police.”

Mr Smith, 63, was killed after being hit by a Volkswagen Polo as he walked along Commercial Street at 7.30pm on Thursday, October 23.

The 21-year-old male driver of the Volkswagen, who is also from Hebden Bridge, was arrested on suspicion of causing death by dangerous driving, but was released on bail on Friday morning.

Before allegedly hitting Mr Smith, he is thought to have hit two stationary cars on Albert Street at the junction with St George’s Square.

Police have also urged any witnesses to come forward.

Sergeant Ann Drury, from West Yorkshire Police’s Major Collision Inquiry Team, said: “The incident occurred around 7.30pm when the pedestrian, who is from the local area, was struck by a green coloured VW Polo vehicle on Albert Street at the junction with St George’s Square.

“Prior to striking the pedestrian the car collided with two other vehicles as it travelled in a north easterly direction along Albert Street.

“Shortly after the collision the vehicle was abandoned by the driver who left the area.

“Sadly, the pedestrian died of his injuries at the scene.

“I am appealing for any witnesses to the collision or anyone who saw the green polo being driven prior to the collision to contact police.”

Anyone with information is asked to contact the Major Collision Inquiry Team via 101 and quoting reference number 1389 from 23 October.