A723

A PENSIONER who died after being mowed down by a car in an early morning hit-and-run has been named.

James Craig, 70, lost his life after he was struck by a Mercedes motor^[1] on the A723 in Hamilton, South Lanarkshire^[2] at the weekend.

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James Craig died after he was struck by a car while crossing the A723 in HamiltonCredit: Police Scotland

His heartbroken family hailed his “love, energy, and kindness” and described him as a “bright light” in their lives.

He was crossing the road near Quarry Street when the vehicle ploughed into him around 12.40am on Sunday.

Emergency crews rushed to the scene after the alarm was raised but tragically James could not be saved and he was pronounced dead at the scene.

In a moving statement, his family said: “Our beloved Dad and Papa was a bright light in our lives so full of love, energy, and kindness. It’s hard to believe he’s been taken from us far too soon.

Bomb squad called to Scots street & locals evacuated amid ‘ongoing police investigation’

Inspector Greg McLaughlan said: “Our investigation has established that the car made off in northerly direction following the crash and we are carrying out a number of enquiries to trace the driver.

“Despite the time, there were people and vehicles in the area, and we are keen to speak to any potential witnesses who have not yet spoken to officers. We are continuing to appeal to anyone else with information to come forward.

“I would urge anyone who was in the area between 12.30am and 12.45am to contact police.

“I would also take the opportunity to appeal directly to the driver involved to do the right thing. Please come forward, identify yourself and speak to us.”

Anyone with information or dash-cam or CCTV footage that could help is urged to contact Police Scotland^[3] on 101, quoting incident number 0171 of Sunday, 27 October, 2024.

References

1. ^{^} struck by a Mercedes motor (www.thescottishsun.co.uk)
2. ^{^} Lanarkshire (www.thescottishsun.co.uk)
3. ^{^} Police Scotland (www.thescottishsun.co.uk)