A devastated mother is mourning the tragic loss of her son, who was struck and killed by an alleged “drug driver” just days before Christmas.
Fifteen-year-old Ryan Marshall was fatally hit by a Ford Fiesta and succumbed to his injuries on December 22. The horrifying crash took place in Andover, Hampshire.
With a heart full of grief, Ryan’s mother paid an emotional tribute, saying, “Ryan was such a sweet, caring boy. His cheeky smile and mischievous sense of humour could light up a room. He was deeply cherished by me, our family, and everyone who had the pleasure of knowing him. We are all utterly heartbroken that he was ripped away from us so suddenly.”
Specialist officers are providing support to Ryan’s family as detectives from the Serious Collision Investigation Unit press on with their inquiries into the incident.
In a statement issued on December 24, South Yorkshire Police disclosed: “As part of our ongoing investigations, the driver of the vehicle involved, a 29-year-old woman from Andover, has been arrested on suspicion of driving while impaired by drugs. She has been released from police custody but remains under investigation pending further enquiries.”
The police force is now urgently appealing to anyone who was in the area at the time of the crash and has information, dashcam or CCTV footage to come forward.
Previously, the force had announced: “An investigation is underway following reports of a road traffic collision in Sheffield. Yesterday, just before 1pm, officers were conducting a pre-planned operation in the Hyde Park Walk area. While there, a black Ford Fiesta, which is believed to have been stolen, reacted to the police presence and tried to flee the scene.”
After a brief pursuit, the black Fiesta crashed into a wall. East Bank Road was shut down for a while as officers carried out their work, but it has since reopened.
The force further added: “An 18-year-old man was taken to hospital where he unfortunately died as a result of his injuries. His family have been informed and are being supported by specialist officers.”