“He was my rock and the kindest man I have ever met” - A heartfelt tribute has been paid to a 59-year-old man who died in a fatal collision in Cosham.
Police were called to a report of a collision at the junction of Medina Road and Sixth Avenue between 4.10pm and 4.20pm on Friday 27 February.
The collision involved a white Ford Transit Tipper van and an e-scooter. The rider of the e-scooter, 59-year-old John Smith from Portsmouth, was taken to hospital but has since passed away.
Paying tribute, John’s fiancée said: “John was my rock and the kindest man I have ever met.
“John was a lovely man whose three main passions were Portsmouth Football Club, following Luke Littler and Ska music. His passing has left a massive hole in my heart, and he was taken from me so suddenly.
“John would do anything for anyone and was extremely well thought of in the local community. John always knew somebody and was forever chatting to the many people he knew when he was out and about and he always had treats for the dogs and cats in the neighbourhood.
“John is also a loved and much-missed son and older brother who spent 10 years working closely with his father.”
As part of our investigation, the driver of the van, a 37-year-old man from Portsmouth, was arrested on suspicion of causing injury by dangerous driving, driving a vehicle whilst unfit through drugs, driving otherwise than in accordance with a licence, and using a motor vehicle on a road without third party insurance.
He was released on bail, pending further enquiries.
If there are any witnesses who have not already contacted us, or motorists with relevant dashcam footage, please call 101 quoting reference 44260097939.
You can also make a report online: https://www.hampshire.police.uk/tua/tell-us-about/cor/tell-us-about-existing-case-report/
Investigation underway after report of suspicious behaviour in a Brighton park
Rare Anglo-Saxon treasure set to go on display at The Novium Museum in Chichester
GRIT students celebrate their success at Crawley Fire Station
Seven Years On: Crimestoppers increases reward to £30,000 in Father and Son Murder Inquiry
Appeal after serious assault in Chichester
South East workers need an extra £7k to feel comfortable
Portsmouth gender pay gap report 2025
Runcton traveller pitches
Twineham School closure confirmed
Fire in derelict property in Eastbourne - Updated: 12/03/2026 @21:07
On Air