A PENSIONER who died after being mowed down by a car in an early morning hit-and-run has been named.
James Craig, 70, lost his life after he was struck by a Mercedes motor on the A723 in Hamilton, South Lanarkshire at the weekend.
His heartbroken family hailed his “love, energy, and kindness” and described him as a “bright light” in their lives.
He was crossing the road near Quarry Street when the vehicle ploughed into him around 12.40am on Sunday.
Emergency crews rushed to the scene after the alarm was raised but tragically James could not be saved and he was pronounced dead at the scene.
In a moving statement, his family said: “Our beloved Dad and Papa was a bright light in our lives so full of love, energy, and kindness. It’s hard to believe he’s been taken from us far too soon.
“We were blessed to have him, and we know his warmth and laughter touched so many. The messages and support from family and friends have brought us comfort in this painful time, and we want to say thank you to everyone who has reached out.
“Your kind words mean so much as we remember the wonderful man he was and the love he brought to us all.”
Cops launched an investigation following his death and officers are continuing to hunt for the driver of the dark-coloured Mercedes.
The vehicle was travelling north on the A723 when the horror collision unfolded.
Police have been carrying out door-to-door enquiries and inspecting CCTV footage.
Anyone who was in the area around the time that James was fatally knocked down have been urged to get in touch.
Inspector Greg McLaughlan said: “Our investigation has established that the car made off in northerly direction following the crash and we are carrying out a number of enquiries to trace the driver.
“Despite the time, there were people and vehicles in the area, and we are keen to speak to any potential witnesses who have not yet spoken to officers. We are continuing to appeal to anyone else with information to come forward.
“I would urge anyone who was in the area between 12.30am and 12.45am to contact police.
“I would also take the opportunity to appeal directly to the driver involved to do the right thing. Please come forward, identify yourself and speak to us.”
Anyone with information or dash-cam or CCTV footage that could help is urged to contact Police Scotland on 101, quoting incident number 0171 of Sunday, 27 October, 2024.