A “WONDERFUL” dad-of-two has been killed in a crash with a lorry, as his heartbroken partner pays tribute.
Arran McManus, described as a “pillar of the community”, was driving on the M20 in Maidstone when tragedy unfolded on Tuesday morning.
The 36-year-old was behind the wheel of his black Nissan Qashqai when a lorry struck him at around 8.30am.
Police were called to the scene, between junction 8 and 9, alongside at least 10 ambulances and 11 fire vehicles.
Despite the best efforts of paramedics, the dad-of-two was sadly pronounced dead.
Cops confirmed a 57-year-old man, understood to be the driver of the white Scania articulated lorry, has since been arrested.
Kent Police detained him on suspicion of causing death by dangerous driving.
He was taken by air ambulance to a London hospital with serious injuries, where he remains in a stable condition.
Arran’s devastated partner, Ashleigh Devlin, issued an emotional tribute today.
She wrote: “I am heartbroken to share that on Tuesday morning, Arran, my partner, my soulmate, and best friend, was sadly taken too soon from us.
“Arran was our whole life and more. He was the most wonderful dad to our two incredible children, and he was so proud of them both and loved them both so deeply.
“Arran will be sorely missed by his entire family circle.”
She said he “brought joy to so many” as a coach and a member of their local football team in Ashford.
Arran also worked as regional operations manager for the SCL Education Group.
Kent Police’s Serious Collision Investigation Unit has now appealed to anyone who may have more information or dash-cam footage.
Traffic on the M20 was stopped on the eastbound carriageway for around an hour to allow the landing of the Air Ambulance Kent Surrey Sussex.
A spokesperson for South East Coast Ambulance Service said: “SECAmb were called at approximately 08:35 today to reports of a collision involving two lorries and a car on the M25 between junctions 9 and 8.
“Multiple crews, critical care paramedics and The Air Ambulance Charity, Kent Surrey Sussex attended the scene.
“Sadly, a man in his 30s was confirmed to be deceased. The driver of another vehicle was airlifted to a London hospital with serious injuries.”
Anyone who could assist with the investigation should call police on 01622 798538 or email [email protected], quoting reference EW/JG/080/25.
