Bristol family devastated by loss of son Sammie
The family of an 11-year-old Bristol boy who died after he was struck in a hit-and run collision have spoken of their devastation.
Sam Riddall died in hospital hours after a Ford Focus car mounted a pavement and ploughed into a group of pedestrians in Westbury-on-Trym.
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Floral tributes to Sammie have been left at the scene of a hit-and-run in Westbury-on-Trym, Bristol
After hitting the group in Eastfield Road the woman driver of the white Ford Focus estate car ran from the scene.
Floral tributes for 'Sammie' have been placed next to where the crash happened.
The child's parents Martin and Rachel Riddall, of Westbury-on-Trym, are said by friends and family to be in shock.
His uncle David Fisher spoke to the Bristol Evening Post.
Mr Fisher, who is Mrs Riddall's brother, said: "Rachel and Martin are devastated.
"They have a big hole in their lives. But there are lots of friends and family around to support them."
The crash happened at 9.15pm on Friday. The Ford Focus car was heading towards the centre of Westbury-on-Trym along Eastfield Road.
The pedestrians were walking in the opposite direction, police said.
Another person in the group of pedestrians - an adult man - was also taken to hospital with minor injuries and was released later on Friday night.
Three other children in the group escaped injury.
Local residents have told of their shock at the death of the child.
Police said they were still hunting the woman driver of the Ford Focus. She is described as being white, with long blonde hair, and in her mid-thirties.
Anyone who can help is asked to contact Avon and Somerset police on 0845 456 7000, or Crimestoppers on 0800 555111.
5 Comments
by amy-louise barnes, bristol, clifton
Sunday, May 03 2009, 10:48PM
“sam you are the sweetiest kindest boy i ever met R.I.P we all love you cant forget and miss you.god belss you sam we will all be thinking of you and praying for you..XoxoxoxoxoxoxX noone can forget that cute smile of yoursx =D”
by Dorothy, St George Bristol
Sunday, May 03 2009, 2:33PM
“As a Mother who lost her daughter of 11 years ,Jane in a road accident in 1968 , I know the pain and shock you must be going through, and my heart aches for you at this time. 41 years on I find comfort in recalling the love and happy times we shared, but still miss her every day . My thoughts are with you amd your family. RIP Sammie and God Bless”
by Joe, Westbury-On-Trym
Sunday, May 03 2009, 9:13AM
“Sam went to my primary school, we played football after school, we went ot the same group of churches. I cannot beleive he is gone, i know his brother and some of his friends, we are all devastated, I will miss you sam, you and your happy smiling face.
In newspapers you always see people saying,"he was such a nice boy", but the truth is he actually was, the happiest, politest, and friendliest 11 year old you could ever meet. R.I.P Sam, you will be missed dearly.
he had an Incredible fith in god, and the only consolation in his death is that he will be at God's side, looking down on me typing this, and all his family and friends.
I just hope whoever did this will be brought to Justice.
Goodbye Sam, i will miss you.”
by TIna, St Pauls
Saturday, May 02 2009, 9:18PM
“Good God, i can't begin ti imagine the pain this family must be going through. I wish them all the strength for the hard times ahead.
I hope this person comes forward to face the consequences, if only to bring a small amount of closure this poor family.”
by Polly, Bristol
Saturday, May 02 2009, 7:31PM
“Sam Riddall went to my school, was in my year, every assembly that I had he would be in that room. I'd be lying if I said I knew him well though. School is going to feel so different without him on tuesday morning. I feel so sorry for his family and wish them all good luck.”