Hit And Run Victim Named – Family Urge Anyone With Information To Come Forward

Published on: 25 Aug, 2016
Updated on: 26 Aug, 2016

The growing number of floral tributes to Mark O’Donnell by the scene of the road collision in which he was killed.

A man who died in the fatal collision in Guildford at the weekend has been formally identified as 22-year-old Mark O’Donnell.

The family of Mr O’Donnell, who is believed to be from St Catherine’s in Guildford, have asked for their privacy to be respected but made this statement through the police: “Mark is survived by his loving parents and three sisters who are completely devastated at this tragic loss.

“Mark was a kind and dearly loved friend, brother and son who will be missed by all who knew him.

“We urge anyone with information about what happened to Mark to contact Surrey Police straightaway.”

The label on this sunflower reads: “A tragic loss of such a good man. You will be sorely missed! All friends at BA.”

Police were called to the A3100 Portsmouth Road by the junction with Turnham Close at around 3am on Saturday, August 20 after a man was found with serious head injuries. South East Coast Ambulance Service also attended the scene but sadly, Mr O’Donnell was pronounced dead at the scene.

On Tuesday, August 22 a man in his 40s was arrested on suspicion of causing death by dangerous driving, failing to stop at the scene of a collision and failing to report a collision. He has been released on police bail until Monday, November 14 while the investigation continues.

Skid marks on the Portsmouth Road, still visible days after the incident in which a young man was killed. One local resident observed the police carrying out tests on Saturday morning to assess the likely speed of any vehicle involved.

Officers continue to appeal for the drivers of two vehicles to come forward. A large silver saloon, possibly an old style Mercedes and a small red hatchback were travelling in the area around the time of the incident. Both vehicles travelled through Guildford’s gyratory system at around 2.55am.

Investigating Officer Sergeant JP Davis, said: “I would urge these two drivers or anyone who thinks they know who they are to come forward and speak with police. They may hold vital information which could help establish what happened and aid our investigation.

“We now believe the vehicles could have been travelling to the Godalming or Farncombe areas.”

The police statement concluded: “If you can help please provide information. Anyone who can assist with the investigation is urged to contact Surrey Police quoting reference P16188470. Information can be passed anonymously to the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.”