Tributes are pouring in for a much-loved retired dental surgeon who died after being struck by a car and carried on its roof for over a mile in Kent.
A Beloved Great-Grandfather's Tragic End
The victim has been named by police as 89-year-old Tom Wallace, a great-grandfather described by his devastated family as a pillar of the Medway community who "deserved a better end to his life than this". The incident occurred on the A289 Gads Hill in Gillingham, Kent, at around 12:10pm on Monday, December 29.
Mr Wallace was hit by a grey Mercedes estate. Shockingly, he was carried on the vehicle for approximately a mile before being found on Grange Road in the Medway town. The car was later discovered nearby, but its two occupants had fled the scene on foot.
Community Pillar and Family Man
In a heartfelt tribute released through Kent Police, Mr Wallace's family painted a picture of a life dedicated to service, family, and adventure. Tom Wallace, LDS, RCS Eng, had worked as a dental surgeon in the Medway Towns throughout his career.
He was married for 63 years, a father of three, a grandfather of four, and a recent great-grandfather. An avid sailor, he navigated the east coast and crossed the Channel to France, often single-handed. His community contributions were vast: he was a long-time bell-ringer at the church on Gillingham Green, a Samaritan volunteer, a fundraiser for the NSPCC, and undertook European cycling tours to raise money for Marie Curie.
"He was a respected and loved member of the community and deserved a better end to his life than this," the family statement concluded, extending thanks to the compassionate residents and a postman who tried to help him on Grange Road.
Charges Brought as Investigation Continues
Kent Police have since charged two men in connection with Mr Wallace's death. Albert Matraxhiu, 28, of Orange Hill Road, Edgware, north London, has been charged with death by dangerous driving.
Erald Paci, 29, of Five Way Court, Chatham, Kent, faces a charge of perverting the course of justice. The force confirmed both men are Albanian nationals.
They appeared at Medway Magistrates' Court on Friday, January 2, where no pleas were entered. Both defendants were remanded in custody and are next due to appear at Maidstone Crown Court on January 30.
