A 28-year-old lorry driver, from Folly Road in Mildenhall, has been formally named after the BMW M3 he was travelling in collided head on with a Hyundai i30 just before 8.15pm on Friday (July 17).
Chris Merchant, known as Blerch, is one of four people who died at the scene of the crash on the B1102 Freckenham Road.
William John Dyal, 77, known as John, and his wife Helen Dyal, 75, from Prickwillow, Ely in Cambridgeshire, who were travelling in the Hyundai, and Matthew Grant, 24, from Mildenhall, who was with Mr Merchant in the BMW, were also pronounced dead at the scene.
The family of Mr and Mrs Dyal paid tribute earlier this week
Suffolk police released a statement on behalf of Mr Merchant’s family.
It read: “Chris was known as Blerch, a loving and much loved son, brother, uncle, cousin, godfather and amazing friend to many.
“With a passion for football, he was a dedicated Spurs fan and devoted much of his spare time playing for local teams.
“Playing music on his decks with his boys was also a great love, attending music festivals and a keen gardener.
“Chris packed it all in, with his charismatic character always a smile and a laugh with everyone.
“Chris threw himself into every challenge and made his family very proud when he worked hard to obtain a HGV1 license with flying colours, passing every element first time.
“He was currently working for AJN Steelstock based in Kentford as an HGV driver delivering fabricated steel countrywide. “Chris always had time for the children in his life, especially his new niece and his little nephew who adored him.
“Blerch lived for every moment, and his heartbroken family know that he would wish them to do the same.
“He will be truly missed by all, but will always live through their hearts.
“The family are overwhelmed by the messages of sympathy, support and tributes to Chris, a huge void in our lives, ‘A Legend’.”
Many had already taken to social media to pay tribute to Mr Merchant.
Police are continuing to appeal for any witnesses who may have seen the collision or either of the vehicles prior to the crash.
Anyone with any information should contact the Suffolk Serious Collision Investigation team on 101 quoting CAD 415 of July 17.
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules here