Father-of-six dies after bridge car crash
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A man who died when a BMW fell off a bridge after a car crash has been described as a devoted father-of-six.
Harry Smith, 33, of Worcester, died after a silver BMW and a red Vauxhall Astra crashed on Eckington Bridge, Worcestershire, on Friday at about 4am, and the BMW fell into the River Avon.
He was recovered from the water but died at the scene, West Mercia Police said.
A 38-year-old man from Worcester, who managed to climb out of the water, was later arrested on suspicion of causing death by dangerous driving and drug driving.
He has been released under investigation.
Police said that another man, who was travelling in the Astra, suffered minor injuries. They are trying to confirm who was driving the BMW.
Police, the West Midlands Ambulance Service and Hereford and Worcester Fire and Rescue attended the scene.
The bridge has now reopened with a temporary weight and speed limit in place.
A number of tributes from Mr Smith’s family, released via the police, said he would be missed as a devoted father to four boys and two girls, and as a son, nephew, brother and boyfriend.
His mother Shirley and her partner Gerry said: “Harry was the light of the party and would do anything for anybody.
“We would like to thank everyone paying their respects at this sad time. Harry will have a send-off fit for a king.
“I miss you so much my boy, love you loads, my heart is broken.”
His father, also called Harry, said: “My angel boy, I will treasure the memories we made. I will love you forever.”
Mr Smith’s girlfriend Sophie said: “I’m so sorry Harry, I wish I was there to help you, you were a brilliant dad to our two girls Talulaa and Valencia, you adored them. I will never stop loving you Harry, I will miss you so much. It’s not goodbye, it’s see you soon.”
In a joint statement, his brothers added: “He was a role model and we can’t believe it’s happened.
“Our hearts are broken, and our minds are blank wish we were there to help you. We will never have another chance to make new memories.
“We never got the chance to say goodbye, but until we see you on the other side, gone but never forgotten, we will love you always.”
His uncles, Lenny, Cojack, Eddie and Gags, said: “He was not just our nephew but our brother.”
The family have asked everyone to avoid speculation on social media and respect their privacy.
