Tribute to 'brilliant' graduate killed in collision with van

A "brilliant" university graduate who was killed when he was hit by a van has been named by police.

Romanian national Cosmin Cocora, 24, who had moved to the UK to study at the University College London, died when a silver GMC travelling on the A6 Garstang Road in Lancashire collided with him.

In a tribute to Mr Cocora - who had been living in St Annes, his family said: "With a deep sorrow the family announce the passing away of their only child, Cosmin Cocora, in a tragic collision.

"A brilliant young boy, University College London graduate, very sensible and full of love, left us much too early at the age of 24. RIP our dear son, we will love you forever."

Mr Cocora suffered significant head injuries and was pronounced dead at the scene.

Lancashire Police are now re-appealing for information following the incident on December 22 which happened at around 4.10am.

Police said the van had been travelling towards the traffic lights at Five Lane Ends on the A6 Garstang Road.

They are also appealing for information about Mr Cocora's movements shortly before his death after he was seen in Preston city centre with a black wheeled suitcase that is yet to be found.

Sergeant Tracey Ward from the Road Policing Unit said: "We are trying to trace anyone who may have known Cosmin Cocora and ask they contact us in order that we may learn a little more about Cosmin's movements prior to his death.

"Cosmin, as we understand, was leading a quiet existence in St Annes having moved to England from Romania to study.

"Shortly before his death we know he was in and around the centre of Preston with luggage in the form of a guitar in a case, a black rucksack and a large black wheeled suitcase. Unfortunately the large suitcase is missing and we are very keen to find it.

"If anyone can help with any information it would very much assist the investigation team. In piecing together Cosmin's last movements we hope to provide his family with answers which may make the grieving process a little easier for them at this difficult time."

Officers are also keen to trace an HGV that was travelling in the area at the time and may have witnessed the incident.

Sgt Ward added: "We are also still appealing for the driver of the HGV which may have seen something that could assist us with our investigation to come forward."

Anyone with any information can contact police on 101 quoting log 187 of December 22.