Family pay heartbreaking tribute to dad they say was a ‘rock' after he was killed in crash & cops launch appeal
THE family of a man who died in a serious collision in Sunderland have paid tribute to their "loving husband, son, dad and grandad".
Paul Andrew Fulcher was 53-years-old when he died from his injuries after a two-vehicle collision on the A690 Durham Road.
Cops first received of the incident at the junction of Ettrick Grove, just after 10.45am on Monday, April 14.
It was later confirmed that a red Subaru Forester car and blue Volkswagen Tiguan car - being driven by Mr Fulcher - collided.
The heartbroken family of the victim have released a tribute saying: "Our hearts are shattered by the loss of Andrew Fulcher, a loving husband, son, dad and grandad.
"He was our rock, our protector, and the soul of our family. He wasn't just loved by us, but by hundreds of friends who will feel his absence deeply.
"Everywhere he went, he left behind kindness, laughter and unforgettable memories. He would do anything to help someone in need, and if you were lucky enough to meet him, you never forgot him.
"His humour, his pranks, his huge heart, they made him truly one of a kind. The hole he leaves behind can never be filled. We will miss him more than words can ever say. We kindly ask for privacy while we navigate this incredibly difficult time."
Following an investigation, police arrested a 19-year-old man on suspicion of causing death by dangerous driving.
He has since been released on bail.
Northumbria Police are continuing to investigate the circumstances surrounding the collision and has urged anyone with information to come forward by referencing NP-20250414-0281.
Inspector Steve Clare said: "This is a tragic incident, and our thoughts are firmly with Andrew's loved ones at this devastating time. We will continue to offer them all of the support they need.
"Although we've arrested an individual, our enquiries into this tragic incident remain firmly ongoing. We want to hear from anyone who may have dashcam footage of the moments leading up to the collision, particularly anyone who was travelling on Springwell Road, Ettrick Grove or Durham Road.
'We're also asking for anyone who stopped to help to get in touch, if they haven't already, as we know several kind-hearted members of the public stopped and it's those people we want to hear from."
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