Two people have been arrested after a “deeply loved” veteran died in a hit and run.
The incident happened in Nelson Road in Whitton, Twickenham at around 3.40pm on December 21.
A car and motorbike had crashed with the car failing to stop.
READ MORE: Veteran and dad killed days before Christmas in ‘hit and run’ was ‘loved by all’
The rider of the bike died at the scene and has since been identified as 60-year-old Steve Penton.
Later on the same day, two people were arrested in Richmond upon Thames on suspicion of causing death by dangerous driving and failing to stop after a collision.
One was bailed and the other released under investigation.
In a statement, the victim’s family said: “Stephen was a son, a father and a brother who was deeply loved.
“He served his country with pride in the Army.
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“He was taken from his family at a time in his life when he had finally found happiness.
“He will be deeply missed, especially in the little things – like hearing his motorbike before he knocked at the door.
“Losing him so suddenly, and in such a heartbreaking and tragic way, has left our family completely shattered.”
Steve’s brother, Darren, told this paper: “He had friends from all walks of life - from medical care to mechanical care, everybody who met him loved him.
“He was generous to a fault, you know. If he needed something and he had it, he'd give it to you.”
Steve had been at a friend’s house earlier in the day helping to fix his car.
Darren said: “If only he'd have stayed for dinner. He would have probably still be here now.”
A fundraiser has been set up to help towards the costs of Steve’s funeral which was held on January 27.
The investigation is ongoing, and police are appealing to the public for witnesses.
Anybody who has information is urged to call 0208 5435157, quoting reference 5446/21DEC.
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