Devastated family's tribute to 'role model' son killed by banned driver

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Louis was described as "selfless, kind-hearted and a joy to be around" (Image: Manchester Evening News)
Louis was described as "selfless, kind-hearted and a joy to be around" (Image: Manchester Evening News)

A family have paid tribute to their "role model" son who was killed in a horror smash by a banned motorist.

Louis Dube, 25, was a passenger in a black Vauxhall Insignia that was involved in a collision with another car in Manchester, on December 5 last year.

Police said at the time the Insignia attempted a manoeuvre when it was struck by a silver-coloured Vauxhall Crossland at a junction.

Emergency services were called to the scene and Louis, who police said had suffered serious injuries, was taken to hospital as a result.

"Sadly, he passed away on Thursday, December 8, despite the best attempts of emergency services personnel," said a Greater Manchester Police spokesman.

Drink-driver steals JCB digger to smash into family house in revenge attack dqxikeidqkikdinvDrink-driver steals JCB digger to smash into family house in revenge attack

The driver of the Insignia, a 30-year-old woman, also suffered serious injuries in the crash, said police, but there has been no update on her condition.

Devastated family's tribute to 'role model' son killed by banned driverRyan McElroy, 35, appeared at Manchester Crown Court last week and pleaded guilty to one count of causing death by dangerous driving (AFP via Getty Images)

The Manchester Evening News reports that the driver of the Vauxhall Crossland, Ryan McElroy, was also injured and went on to be charged with a series of offences.

McElroy, 35, of Apeel Lane in Chadderton, Oldham, appeared at Manchester Crown Court last week and pleaded guilty to one count of causing death by dangerous driving.

He also admitted a charge of causing serious injury by dangerous driving in relation to the driver of the Insignia and driving whilst disqualified.

McElroy is due to be sentenced at Manchester Crown Court, Crown Square, on February 9.

Following the tragedy, which took place on Mount Road in the Gorton area of the city, at the road's junction with Balmoral Street, Louis' family paid a moving tribute to him.

His mother, Nompi, and brother, Emmanuel, released a joint statement via Greater Manchester Police.

"Louis was a loving son, brother, nephew, and friend to so many," the statement said. "When Louis wasn't in work, he could be found in church volunteering or studying for his master's degree. Most recently, Louis was training for a marathon to help raise funds for the local homeless community.

"There are so many stories that show who Louis was; now as a family we can reflect on these. For example, we recall when Louis provided shelter to a family whose house had caught fire.

"Louis' faith was so important to him, and it was emphasised in how he lived his life. Louis was selfless, kind-hearted and a joy to be around."

Drunk easyJet passenger groped female flight attendant and tried to trip anotherDrunk easyJet passenger groped female flight attendant and tried to trip another

Emmanuel added: "Louis was my role model, and nothing was ever too much; he showed love to everybody and would drop everything to help you."

Nompi continued: "Louis was not only my son, but he was also my best friend. I remember Louis always smiling and I am so proud of him. Christmas without Louis will be immensely difficult not only for the family, but for everybody that knew him."

Paul Britton

Grieving, Tributes, Car crashes, Homelessness, Dangerous driving, Crown court, Court case, Greater Manchester Police

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