The heartbroken family of a man killed in a fatal crash in Purleigh have described him as an avid sportsman “who loved and protected people in life”. Officers are investigating a single-vehicle collision on Hackmans Lane in Purleigh at around 2am on January 6.
Emergency services rushed to the scene, but tragically, Thomas Chapman, 21, from Brentwood, could not be saved. A man, 20, from Brentwood, was arrested on suspicion of causing death by dangerous driving and driving while unfit through drink or drugs. He has since been released but remains under police investigation.
Tom’s family said the 21-year-old was a dedicated sportsman and had raised money for charity. A fundraiser set up in his memory has raised more than £12,000 for the Tottenham Hotspur Foundation.
READ MORE: Essex council that bought £500 Noddy car don’t have anywhere to put it
ALSO READ: Haunting CCTV shows final movements of Essex ‘murder’ victim before he was found in the garden
Paying tribute to him, his family said: “Tom was a loving and much-loved son, brother, grandson, nephew, cousin and friend. There are not enough words to describe Tom.
“He was brave, strong, intelligent, funny, kind, stylish, adventurous, playful, charismatic, compassionate, sporty, spirited, handsome, protective, thoughtful, captivating, loyal, determined, ambitious, resilient, compelling, unique, eternal. Aged just 21, Tom graced the world with an infectious smile and energy for life, touching hearts and making an impact wherever he went.
“He was filled with energy and ambition and had planned to work and travel overseas. He was an avid sportsman, footballer, golfer and gym fanatic and recently completed a Tough Mudder in support of a national charity.
“Above all, Tom was a good and kind man who loved and protected the people in life. He will be missed beyond measure but forever remembered.”
A spokesperson for Essex Police said: “We would continue to appeal for anyone with information or dash cam footage which could assist our enquiries to come forward. You can let us know by submitting a report on our website or by using our online Live Chat service which is available 24 hours-a-day, seven days-a-week.
“It can be found at the bottom right of our homepage at www.essex.police.uk. Visit www.essex.police.uk/digital101 to find out more about our website reporting services. Alternatively, you can call us on 101. Please cite reference 42/2246/25.”