The family of a man who died in a hit-and-run crash in Lichfield have described him as a “devoted daddy”.
Stuart Blackwell, aged 40, of Manley Road, died following the incident on the A5127 Burton Road in Streethay at around 7.40am on Friday (December 14.
Has was walking the family dog Oscar – who also died – at the time of the collision.
In a statement, Mr Blackwell’s wife Clare said: “Never in a million years did I imagine that I would sit here writing these words.
“My husband was an utterly devoted Daddy to our only daughter, a supportive and loving husband and a loving son, brother, son-in-law, friend and nephew.
“Many people have commented ‘and at this time of year too’. In all honesty, anytime would have been unacceptable, it makes no difference that it is Christmas. We have an eight-year-old beautiful daughter so for her sake Christmas in some shape or form will happen.
“It will be a different Christmas and no doubt there will be many tears but we must be brave for our darling girl.”
She also described how he regularly walked the family’s pet dog in the area.
“He was a dedicated and responsible dog owner to our much loved black labrador Oscar,” Clare added.
“Stuart walked the same route every week day, at the same time for the past eight years until Friday. This was his regular routine without mishap or event.
“As a keen outdoors person Stuart took his personal safety and the safety of our dog very seriously. However, despite his own diligence, his life and Oscar’s was horrifically taken away from us.”
Mrs Blackwell also paid tribute to motorists who stopped after the crash in an attempt to save her husband’s life.
“I’d like to thank the motorists who did stop on Burton Road on Friday morning to assist my darling Stuart,” she sad. “I’d also wish to give my sincere thanks to the residents of Burton Road for their compassion and taking care of the much appreciated floral tributes left at the scene.
“I have been overwhelmed by the support we have recieved from our dear friends, family, the police and people who knew Stuart and Oscar by sight whilst walking their own dogs.”
A 21-year-old Lichfield man was arrested on suspicion of causing death by dangerous driving and questioned before being released on police bail pending further inquiries.
Anyone who witnessed the collision, or who has any information about the car, should ring Staffordshire Police on 101, quoting incident number 88 of 14 December. Alternatively, they can ring independent charity Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111.
