THE family of a cyclist who was killed in an alleged hit-and-run have shared a heartbreaking tribute to “a much loved partner, dad, brother, son, friend and colleague”.
Richard Smith, 50, was travelling home from work on May 8 when he was “deliberately hit” by a white Mercedes in Norwich.
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Richard Smith was a beloved father, brother and friend Credit: Norfolk Police
The dad-of-three died of his injuries three days after being hit on his way home from work Credit: East Anglia News Service
The horrifying incident was reported to police just after 5pm on Friday in Chartwell Road.
Richard spent several days in hospital before dying of his injuries on Monday, May 11.
In a statement to Norfolk Police the family said that they mourn the loss of “a much loved partner, dad, brother, son, friend and colleague”.
“We are all struggling to make sense of such a tragic loss to all of our lives”, it said.
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“Rich was a keen NCFC supporter, a blood and organ donor and a proud dad to his three children.
“We will remember him with love and kindness and for some truly terrible dance moves”, the statement finished.
Richard worked as a sales manager for Delta Fire, a firm which sells firefighting nozzles.
The company’s touching tribute on LinkedIn had over 100 comments.
David Morgan, 40, stands accused of attempted murder after allegedly driving his Mercedes into cyclist Richard Daniel Smith Credit: East Anglia News Service
David Morgan appeared in court earlier this week Credit: East Anglia News Service
The post said: “It is with great sadness that we share the news that our much-loved colleague, Richard Smith, passed away following a road traffic incident”.
“Richard was a valued member of our team and will be deeply missed by everyone who had the privilege of working with him.
“Our thoughts are with Richard’s family, friends and colleagues during this incredibly difficult time”.
When the crash was first reported, it was described as “a cyclist being deliberately hit by a white Mercedes CLA 180 Sport car”.
On the day of Richard’s death, the man who allegedly hit him was charged.
David Morgan, 40, appeared before Norwich Magistrates’ Court on May 11 charged with attempted murder and driving with excess alcohol.
The forklift driver spoke only to confirm his name and age and entered neither a “guilty” nor a “not guilty” plea.
He is being kept in custody and is next due to appear before Norwich Crown Court on June 8.
Anyone with dashcam footage or information on the manner of driving of the white Mercedes before the collision is asked to share this with the Major Investigation Team online.
Alternatively, people can contact 101 and quote incident number NC-08052026-392.
