TRIBUTES have been paid to a dad who was killed in a road crash at the weekend - and who would have been celebrating his 27th birthday yesterday.

Lenny Deugo was killed on the A692 Genesis Way, in near Consett on Sunday.

The father-of-one, who was born in Germany and lives in Consett, County Durham, was driving a blue MG ZR when it was involved in a collision with a white Renault van. Lenny was pronounced dead at the scene.

The driver of a black Vauxhall Insignia was arrested on suspicion of dangerous driving on Monday and has been released under investigation.

Speaking on behalf of the family, his parents Perry and Christine Deugo, said: “We are heartbroken to announce the death of our son Lenny. He leaves his precious son Tyler, aged two, three brothers and two sisters. As a family unit, we are incredibly close, and now we are missing an important part of our jigsaw.

“Affectionately known as ‘Big Lenny’ by all those who knew him, he had a huge heart and will be missed by everyone.

“He was a very easy person to get on with. He was guaranteed to make you laugh and make fun in any situation.”

Lenny was studying to be an electrician at Derwentside College.

He loved dance and rap music and working out at his local gym, The Gym.

Mr and Mrs Deugo continued: “Lenny turned his life around, overcoming very personal challenges, despite having the toughest upbringing of his siblings

“Tyler gave him a focus and purpose. He loved spending time with him, having days out at the beach and parks and just generally enjoying themselves. They were due to go away together on holiday this week.”

  • Durham Constabulary would like to hear from anyone who was in the area at the time of this incident or may have dashcam footage of the vehicles.
  • Anyone with information is asked to call Durham Constabulary on 101 quoting the reference number 153 of October 1.