The family of a 15-year-old boy who died after being hit by a car has paid tribute to a ‘gentle giant’.
Christopher Dobson was knocked down while crossing the road outside a branch of McDonald’s in Bradford.
The boy, 15, was taken to hospital but could not be saved after the fatal accident at around 10.45pm on Friday.
Police said the 35-year-old driver, who stopped at the scene, has been arrested on suspicion of drug driving and causing death by dangerous driving.
He was held in custody overnight for questioning but has since been bailed.
Now his family has paid tribute to Christopher, saying: ‘Christopher was a gentle giant, loved by all who knew him, he was the best son, grandson, brother and nephew you could ask for.
‘Though Christopher’s life was cut short, the love, kindness, and joy he shared with all who knew him will never be forgotten.
‘We would like to thank our friends, family, the local community and emergency services who have shown overwhelming support at this difficult time, we would like to request privacy as we try to come to terms with the loss of our beloved Christopher.’
Authorities are now appealing for witnesses to the crash on Bradford Road, Eccleshill, to come forward.
They said the car involved was a black VW Golf GTI, which had been travelling away from Five Lane Ends.
A local business worker told Metro that the road is often very busy, particularly outside McDonald’s where there are ‘always people going in and out’.
Floral tributes were left at the scene and online, with loved ones saying that he would be ‘forever 15’.
Detective Inspector Paul Conroy said on Saturday: ‘A number of enquiries remain ongoing into this very serious incident which has resulted in a 15-year-old male tragically losing his life.
‘We are working to support his parents and are appealing for any witnesses to the collision or anyone who saw the black VW Golf or teenager just prior to the collision taking place.
‘We would also like to speak with anyone who has CCTV or dashcam footage which may assist enquiries.’
