Teen charged after fatal crash

Ali Luigi Trevor Pugh, 19, a gardener of Skinners Lane, Catsfield, was arrested in the village just hours after the accident in Holliers Hill in the early hours of August 29.

Ricky Alan Atkins, 19, from London Road, Bexhill, died after the green Citroen Saxo he was travelling in collided with a parked van just after 1am.

He died at the Conquest Hospital in Hastings a short time later.

Pugh has been charged with causing death by driving a vehicle while unlicensed, causing death by driving a vehicle while not insured and failing to stop at the scene of a road traffic collision.

He appeared at Brighton Magistrates Court this week where he was remanded in custody.

On Monday (September 2) Ricky’s family have released a tribute to the teenager.

It says: “Ricky was a loving brother and son, everyone who knew him loved him.

“Ricky was a kind hearted boy who loved his family and friends dearly.

“We will carry him in our hearts forever.

“Rest in peace Ricky Atkins, we love you.”

Sergeant Stacey Ellott from the Road Policing Unit said: “The investigation into this collision is still ongoing and police are keen to speak with anyone who may have witnessed the collision or who may have any information that may assist them with their enquiries.

“Please make contact with us on 101 quoting Operation Account or email [email protected]”