Tributes to Storm Darragh’s second victim as dad-of-seven crushed to death when tree fell on his car in gale-force winds
HEARTBREAKING tributes have been paid to a “hardworking” dad-of-seven who died in Storm Darragh.
Kher Hussain Shahin, 56, was killed after a tree fell on his car as he drove in Erdington, Birmingham on Saturday.
The tragedy unfolded on Silver Birch Road, close to the junction of Sutton New Road, at around 3pm.
Despite the best efforts of paramedics, Kher was sadly pronounced dead at the scene.
Birmingham environment and transport boss councillor Majid Mahmood has been in touch with the grief-stricken family.
In a touching tribute he told The Sun: “Kher was a was a hardworking family man, 56 years old, and the proud father of 7 children.
“He was a community minded person and did a lot of work for charitable organisations operating in Bangladesh supporting the less fortunate.”
The councillor also said the family “want some peace to deal with the unexpected death”.
People have expressed their deepest sympathies and well-wishes on social media.
.”Very tragic. My deepest sympathy and condolences to the family. May Allah grant the highest place in Paradise to the Deceased,” wrote one.
“How Terribly sad. Thoughts and prayers for the family and friends of this gentleman,” agreed another.
Claire Thompson posted: “God bless him and his family.”
And Sgt Benjamin Parsons, of West Midlands Police’s Roads Policing Unit, said: “Our thoughts are with the man’s family at this time, and his next of kin have been informed.
“A report will be passed onto the coroner. Anyone who saw what happened or who may have dashcam or mobile phone footage, is asked to please get in touch.”
A spokesperson for the force said on Saturday: “A man has sadly died after a tree fell and hit his car this afternoon.
“We were called to Silver Birch Road, Erdington, just after 3pm today, following reports that a tree had fallen and hit a car as a result of the storm conditions.
“Anyone with information should contact us via Live Chat on our website, or by calling 101, quoting log 2695 of 7 December.”
Storm Darragh tragically claimed two lives on Saturday, with the first victim being named as Paul Fiddler.
The popular football coach, who was in his 40s, died after a tree fell onto his Citroen van on the A59 in Longton, Lancashire, on Saturday.
The Lytham Town FC assistant manager was described as the “best uncle” by niece Katie Elliott following the 9am tragedy.
She wrote on social media: “You will always be in my heart. Thank you for everything you have ever done for me and for being the best uncle.”
One friend described him as an “all round nice guy”.
Pal Barry Wade said: “He always seemed to have a smile on his face”.
Janine Farnell added: “Paul was a lovely chap. So helpful and friendly.”
A Lytham Town FC spokesman said in a statement: “Today, we would like to take the time to remember a Lytham Town FC legend, Paul Fiddler.
“Our thoughts are with the Lytham Town lads, his friends and family at this time.
“Rest in Peace Paul. We will miss you.”
One friend wrote on social media: “My heart goes out to Paul’s family during this sad time for everyone who had the privilege of knowing him.
“Paul was a massive support for countless families in their moments of need, and his kindness will always be remembered.”
Another said: “So very sad. RIP Paul. Fly high lad, and thank you for everything you did to help families like mine.
“You will never be forgotten, deepest condolences to his family.”
“Rest in peace Paul. One of the nicest blokes you could ever meet. Thoughts are with your family,” added a third.
A spokesperson for Lancashire Police said on Saturday: “An investigation is underway after a man died when a tree fell onto his van during Storm Darragh.
“Emergency services were called at around 9am today (Saturday, December 7th) after the incident which happened on the A59 at Longton near to Lancashire Police Headquarters.
“The man, in his 40s, was driving his Citroen van on the dual carriageway when the tree fell on to his vehicle causing serious injuries. He was sadly pronounced dead at the scene.
“His next of kin have been informed and are being supported by a specially trained officer.”
Detective Sgt Matt Davidson, of our Serious Collision Investigation Unit said: “Very sadly this incident has resulted in the death of a man and our thoughts are with his loved ones at this time.”
“An investigation is ongoing, and I would appeal to anyone who saw what happened or has any dashcam or mobile phone footage to please get in touch.”