TRIBUTES have been paid to a “loving” man who tragically died after a car was allegedly deliberately driven at him.
Martin O’Donovan, 46, passed away in hospital after being seriously injured in the horrific late-night collision in Woolton, Liverpool, on Friday.
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Stephen Bates, 41, has been charged with his murder and will appear at Liverpool Magistrates’ Court on Tuesday.
An emotional tribute to Martin has now been released by his family through Merseyside Police, following his death.
His family said: “Martin was a loving, caring, fun, and intelligent son, brother and uncle, who would light up any room with his humour and presence.
“He lived life by his motto ‘keep smiling’ and was highly devoted to his family and friends.
“An accomplished engineer and skilled outdoorsman, he was well-read, well-travelled, and full of light, and his wonderfully joyous spirit will live on in everyone who had the pleasure of meeting him.
“We are devastated that he has been taken from us in such cruel and senseless circumstances, and as we process such an overwhelming loss, we take solace in the fact that he will always be remembered for the remarkable man that he was.”
Martin was hit by the vehicle at around 11.45pm on Good Friday, Merseyside Police said.
He was rushed to hospital from the scene by paramedics, but he tragically died from his injuries at the medical centre.
Police were previously appealing for anyone with information or CCTV footage of the collision to come forward.
Speaking on Saturday, Detective Inspector Katie Coote said: “Our investigation into this incident is in its very early stages, but it does appear the car was deliberately driven at the man.
“Despite the best efforts of the people who came to his aid and those of paramedics, he sadly passed away in hospital.
“Our thoughts remain with his family at this tragic time and specially trained officers are supporting them.
“We have launched an investigation into what happened and we have already arrested a suspect and seized the car we believe was involved.”
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