A FAMILY has paid tribute to a “fun-loving” 21-year-old who died after being hit by a car as he walked along a country road.

Patrick Schaible has been described as a “happy young man” by his parents and siblings following his death at around 6.40am on Saturday, October 7.

Durham Police confirmed that the 21-year-old was pronounced dead at the scene of the incident on the outskirts of Summerhouse village, near Darlington, after he was hit by a blue Renault Clio.

Mr Schaible had been walking along the B6279 road which links the village to his home less than two miles away in Headlam.

In a family statement released by Durham Police, Mr Schaible’s parents said: “He was a much-loved son and brother.

“Patrick will be remembered as a fun-loving happy young man who would always make you smile and laugh.

“He loved his family and friends and will be desperately missed by his mum, dad, brother and sisters and so many dear and close friends.”

The B6279 road was closed for several hours over the weekend while officers from Durham Police’s Collision Investigation Unit examined the scene.

The driver of the vehicle, a 26-year-old man, was arrested on suspicion of causing death by careless driving and has been released under investigation.

More than £2,000 was raised by friends of the Schaible family after a fundraising effort was organised by colleagues of Mr Schaible’s mother, who works as a doctor in Darlington Memorial Hospital’s accident and emergency department.

A statement published on the online fundraising page encourages people to support the family, adding it is “our turn to help”.

The statement continues: “At a time like this, no one should be concerned with work, with money, with the daily chores of life.

“Darlington Memorial Hospital Team A&E have created this page to allow [Ms Schaible] some financial slack so that her priorities at this dark time can be where they should be – with the people that love her.

“Let’s see what we can do in these difficult times.”

Durham Police are continuing to appeal for witnesses in relation to the incident.

  • Anyone with information can contact the force by calling non-emergency number 101, quoting reference 62 of October 7.
  • Donations can be made to the fundraising effort by visiting gofundme.com/t6v8ef-nicola