Murder charge after death of 'kind, loving and talented' man, 26, hit by van in town centre

A man has been charged with murder after the death of a man hit by a van that ploughed into a group of people in a town centre, police said today. Tributes, meanwhile, have been paid to 'kind, loving, funny and talented' Samuel Wilson.

The 26-year-old was hit by the vehicle in Market Place, Ilkeston, Derbyshire, just after 2am on Saturday. Paramedics tried to save him but he died at the scene, while two men taken to hospital with injuries are recovering at home, police said.

In an update on Monday, Derbyshire Police said Zac Newman, of The Crescent, Stapleford, has been charged with murder, section 18 wounding with intent and attempted section 18 GBH.

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The 27-year-old has been remanded in custody to appear at Southern Derbyshire Magistrates Court later today, Monday, the force added.

Mr Wilson’s sister said there are “no words” to describe the family’s loss on a JustGiving page which has raised more than £7,000. She said: “Our hearts will forever be broken, and there are no words to describe the huge hole it has left in all of our hearts.”

Football club Curzon AFC posted a tribute on Facebook, saying: “It’s with a very heavy heart that we have to share the news that our kind, loving, funny, talented Number 12 and last seasons player of the season Sam Wilson, tragically lost his life early hours this morning.

“We’ve not just lost a player, we’ve lost a friend, a brother, a son, a boyfriend and all round one of life’s good guys, his impact on all of our lives will never be forgotten!

“Sam we love you and we will all miss you. Until we meet again keep looking