Gravesend man who died after being hit by van on A2 named
13:46, 19 August 2020
updated: 22:49, 19 August 2020
Family and friends have been paying tribute to a man who died while walking along the A2.
Matthew Russell died after he was hit by a white Vauxhall Movano van at 11.25pm along the Gravesend East slip road on Monday.
He was named in an online tribute posted on behalf of his partner, parents, brothers and sisters.
Emergency services, including the police and paramedics, were called to the late night scene , but Matthew was confirmed deceased on arrival.
His devastated partner, Rachel Golder, said he "touched so many hearts".
Posting on Facebook, she added: "He was my best friend and partner in one and I am totally lost without him.
"We live in such a cruel world and until I can see Matt for one last time I honestly still can't believe it."
One friend of the victim said: "He was honestly one of the most happiest boys I’ve known. He’s going to be missed, just the way he smiled and laughed and made everyone’s day better whenever we would see him."
While another added: "Worked with him, grew up with him, in all that time I was never sad or upset when he was around, always made me laugh. Love you and miss you mate."
Mr Russell, who was 23, would have celebrated his 24th birthday next month.
An online fundraiser has been set up by Rachel's mum, Nichola Christie, to help cover the cost of his funeral. This evening, it had raised more than £2,000.
Posting on the page, she wrote: "Matt was so loving and caring, full of energy, ready to help anybody and most of all he was always up for a laugh.
"Matthew's death was a tragic accident and he was honestly just in the wrong place at the wrong time!"
"This will be one of the most precious things I will never forget about him."
She also revealed that Mr Russell has been enjoying a meal and drinks with friends just hours before he died.
"Matthew's death was a tragic accident and he was honestly just in the wrong place at the wrong time," she said.
Kent Police spokesman Sally Smith said: "The Serious Collision Investigation Unit (SCIU) would like to speak to anyone who may have witnessed the man or the vehicle in the moments before the collision.
"They would also like to hear from anyone who may have dash cam footage which might assist inquiries."
To donate to the appeal, click here .
Anyone with information should call the SCIU appeal line on 01622 798538 quoting AH/JW/73/20, or email sciu.td@kent.pnn.police.uk.
