The grieving family of a 19-year-old man who was killed in a suspected hit-and-run have made a direct appeal to the driver to hand themself in, saying ‘it’s the least you could do’.
Bailey Chadwick was walking home after finishing a a night at work in a local pub, and seeing friends in Pateley Bridge, North Yorkshire, when he was fatally injured on the B6265 in the early hours of Sunday.
He had been due to go travelling to Thailand this week and the police officer in charge of the investigation said the teenager had ‘a lifetime of adventures ahead of him’.
Speaking close to the scene of the collision near the village of Glasshouses, Mr Chadwick’s mother Dayle Knights said through tears: ‘No words can express how absolutely devastated we are.
‘Bailey was just a normal, happy, outgoing 19-year-old, who had his whole life ahead of him.’
His stepfather Daniel Horler said: ‘He should be living his best life seeing a new country, exploring new people, but instead he was left alone to die.
‘Bailey was torn away from us at such a young age. The fact that someone knows he was driving that night is heartbreaking for all of us.
‘Please, if it’s you, do the right thing and speak to the police.
Bailey Chadwick (pictured) was walking home after seeing friends in Pateley Bridge, North Yorkshire, when he was fatally injured on the B6265 in the early hours of Sunday
Speaking close to the scene of the collision near the village of Glasshouses, Mr Chadwick’s mother Dayle Knights said through tears: ‘No words can express how absolutely devastated we are’
Detective Inspector Jill Cowling, of North Yorkshire Police, said she was appealing directly to the driver to come forward and help the investigation
‘Please, if you have any information which will help trace the person responsible, please help.
‘If you’ve any empathy within you whatsoever, it’s the least you could do.’
Detective Inspector Jill Cowling, of North Yorkshire Police, said: ‘My thoughts at this time are with Bailey’s family and friends as they face the overwhelming grief caused by the loss of their beloved Bailey.
‘Over the coming days and weeks, we will continue to ensure that they are supported by our specialist family liaison officers.
‘I am also aware of how much this terrible incident has understandably shocked residents in the close local communities around Pateley Bridge and the surrounding villages at this distressing time – the many messages of love and kind words about Bailey are hugely appreciated and welcomed by his family.’
He was struck by a vehicle between 1.44am and 3.10am on Sunday as he walked home.
Ms Cowling said the driver may not be aware there was a collision.
She said: ‘Now is the time to come forward.
Flowers and tributes have been left close to where he was struck, including a Sheffield Wednesday flag and scarf – the football team he followed
‘The grief endured by Bailey’s family is further compounded by the fact that the driver has not yet come forward.
‘I am now appealing directly to the driver of the vehicle to do the right thing for Bailey and his family and contact us immediately.
‘Bailey had everything to look forward to in his life.
‘He was a well-loved, popular young man with a lifetime of adventures ahead of him.
‘Now this is all gone.’
The detective said detailed investigations are under way, including using CCTV footage, and there are a number of lines of inquiry.
She said: ‘As the driver, this is your opportunity to come to us before we come to you.
‘If you know who was driving the vehicle which fatally injured Bailey, then please do the right thing and contact us now.
‘I am extremely grateful to everyone who has already come forward with information.
‘I urge anyone who can help with the investigation into this tragic incident to contact North Yorkshire Police on 101. You can also contact CrimeStoppers anonymously.’
The Royal Oak pub where Bailey worked said in a social media tribute: ‘The most loveable, caring, trustworthy, happy, smiley, beautiful young man we have ever had the honour of working with. A true gentlemen and friend.’
Flowers and tributes have been left close to where he was struck, including a Sheffield Wednesday flag and scarf – the football team he followed.
One card said: ‘Light up the sky, you gorgeous, gorgeous boy. Love you always.’
Another said: ‘A lovely funny lad. So sad.’
