Tribute to 'kindest man' and popular Portsmouth FC fan who died in Cosham crash
A heartfelt tribute has been paid to a popular Pompey fan who died in a fatal collision with a suspected drug-driver in Cosham.
Police were called to a report of a collision at the junction of Medina Road and Sixth Avenue between 4.10pm and 4.20pm on Friday 27 February.
The collision involved a white Ford Transit Tipper van and an e-scooter which 59-year-old John Smith, from Portsmouth, was riding. He was taken to hospital but has since passed away.
Paying tribute, John’s fiancée said: “John was my rock and the kindest man I have ever met. John was a lovely man whose three main passions were Portsmouth Football Club, following Luke Littler and Ska music. His passing has left a massive hole in my heart, and he was taken from me so suddenly.
“John would do anything for anyone and was extremely well thought of in the local community. John always knew somebody and was forever chatting to the many people he knew when he was out and about and he always had treats for the dogs and cats in the neighbourhood.
“John is also a loved and much-missed son and older brother who spent 10 years working closely with his father.”
Police said the driver of the van, a 37-year-old man from Portsmouth, was arrested on suspicion of causing injury by dangerous driving, driving a vehicle whilst unfit through drugs, driving otherwise than in accordance with a licence, and using a motor vehicle on a road without third party insurance. He was released on bail, pending further enquiries.
Police added: “If there are any witnesses who have not already contacted us, or motorists with relevant dashcam footage, please call 101 quoting reference 44260097939.”
You can also make a report online:www.hampshire.police.uk/tua/tell-us-about/cor/tell-us-about-existing-case-report/