VIDEO: Tributes for New Year’s Day hit and run victim
Named through social media as Jamie Murray, the 23-year-old died at the scene of the collision on the A259 Grand Parade at the junction with Warrior Square around 4am.
Three men and a boy aged 17 were later arrested after a Ford Focus was abandoned a few hundred yards further up the road.
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Hide AdThey were all arrested all on suspicion of causing death by dangerous driving.
They were a 33-year-old from Bexhill, a 24-year old from Hastings, a 24-year old from Bexhill, and a 17-year old from Bexhill
Two of them, the 33-year old from Bexhill and the 24-year old from Hastings, were also arrested on suspicion of driving while unfit through drunk or drugs.
The 24-year-old man from Bexhill was also arrested on suspicion of aggravated vehicle taking.
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Hide AdIt is believed Mr Murray was from London originally but had been living in the local area.
This morning eight bouquets of flowers had been laid against railings at Warrior Square Gardens close to where the accident happened.
One carried a message which read: “Hi Jay - even now I’m speechless. Can’t believe God has taken you from us on the first day of a fresh start. RIP brother.”
Dozens of messages of condolences have been posted to the Hastings Observer Facebook page.
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Hide AdKaren Pain posted: “Poor lad was probably on his way home from work. My thoughts are with his family.”
Leanne Sara Atkins posted: “Horrific for all involved. Thoughts are with the families.”
Jay Jenner posted: “What a tragic start to the new year! My thoughts go out to the poor cyclist and family.”
Gemma Huggett posted: “I cant believe uve gone. what a nice lad always spoke to us.”
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Hide AdLiz Martin posted: “What a terrible day for the family of this young man, so saddened to read this news....my love and thoughts to his friends and family.”
Sussex Police is appealing for witnesses to the collision. Anyone with information can call 101 and quote Operation Ashdon.
If you would like to pay tribute to Mr Murray call newsdesk on 01424 856760 or email: [email protected]