Family of man killed on M1 pay tribute to ‘beloved dad, stepdad, partner, son, grandson and brother’

Rowan Dodge, from Melton Mowbray, was the driver of a white Volkswagen Golf which was involved in a collision with a Leyland DAF HGV at 4.40am on Sunday 16 March.

Mr Dodge, 31, was pronounced dead at the scene.

In a statement, Mr Dodge’s family said: “Rowan was beloved dad, stepdad, partner, son, grandson and brother.

“He was full of energy and always up for an adventure. He loved socialising and was the life and soul of the party – so much so his voice was the first anyone heard.

“He was a keen rugby player and a loveable force who put a smile on everyone’s face.

“We’re all heartbroken and devastated to lose such an incredible soul in such tragic and sudden circumstances. Nothing can fill the holes in our hearts that he’s left behind.”

The driver of the HGV did not suffer any physical injuries but was taken to hospital as a precaution. He has since been discharged. No-one has been arrested in connection with the incident.

PC Suki Sahota, from the force’s Serious Collision Investigation Unit (SCIU), said: “We believe that prior to the collision, the Golf had been involved in a separate collision. We believe it had stopped stationary in lane one - the left lane - of the carriageway, when it was struck by the HGV.

“I’m still keen to speak to anyone who may have driven past and seen the Golf in this position before the collision involving the HGV.

“Any drivers who may have captured footage on their dashcams which may relate to this incident are also asked to contact us.”

You can pass on information by visiting https://www.leics.police.uk/advice/advice-and-information/rs/road-safety/making-a-road-traffic-incident-report/ and quoting incident 88 of 16 March.