Tribute to 'loving' father-of-three killed in crash

A father-of-three who was killed in a crash has been described as a "loving, generous, energetic man with a kind and selfless heart" in a family tribute.

The crash involving a white Mercedes and an Allegro electric pedal bike happened on the A3057 Romsey Road on the evening of 8 July.

The cyclist – 37-year-old Alexandru Cosmin Oprea – was pronounced dead at the scene.

The driver of the Mercedes – a 40-year-old man from Southampton – was arrested on suspicion of causing death by dangerous driving and drink driving.

In a tribute, his family said: "A father, a husband, a son, and a brother has left this world, carrying in his heart a deep longing for home.

"Alex passed away far from his family, but from this day forward he will remain forever close, in the hearts of those who loved him.

"It is an unimaginable tragedy that has left behind a grieving family, three children without their father, and a void that can never be filled."

They said he was born in Romania, where he lived with his wife and their three children, who were "the light of his life", and worked as a bodyguard and security officer.

They said he had travelled to England three weeks prior to the crash "in search of better-paid work, hoping to provide a brighter and more secure future for the people he loved most".

"Alex was a loving, generous, energetic man with a kind and selfless heart," the tribute continued.

"He had a great passion for sport and passed that passion on to his son, David.

"You will remain forever in our hearts, dear Alex. May God grant you eternal rest."

The Mercedes driver has been bailed until 9 October.