The family of a Romanian man who died following a road crash in Aberdeen on December 30 has described him as “the most selfless, caring, and kind man you could ever wish to know”.
Gabriel Lungu, 43, was driving his Dacia Sandero at the junction of the city’s Hilton Drive and Hilton Avenue when it was involved in a collision with a stolen Volkswagen Golf.
The two male occupants of the silver Golf left the scene on foot, while Mr Lungu was taken to Aberdeen Royal Infirmary.
He later died from his injuries.
‘Truly one in a million’
In a statement given through the police, Mr Lungu’s family said his death “has left a hole in our family that can never be filled” and that “he will be missed every day”.
They added: “Gabriel Lungu, a much loved husband, father, grandfather, and friend, was taken from us.
“Gabriel was truly one in a million. The most selfless, caring, and kind man you could ever wish to know.
“There was nothing you could ask of him that was too much – he would help in any way he could, no matter what.
“Regardless of any problems of his own that he might have had, he did his best to ensure everyone around him was happy and cared for.”
A fundraising appeal, set up by his next of kin to pay for his return to his home town of Sinaia near the centre of Romania, has currently made more than £17,000 – with one anonymous donor giving £10,000.
Investigation continues
Officers said “extensive” inquiries were ongoing to track down the two men who left the scene.
Sergeant Steve Manson, of the North East Road Policing Unit, said: “Our thoughts are very much with Mr Lungu’s family at this sad time.
“The vehicle involved had been stolen a short time earlier and our enquires are continuing to establish the circumstances.
“I urge those who were in the Golf at the time of the incident or anyone who has knowledge of the occupants, to please do the right thing and contact us immediately.
“Similarly, we ask anyone who witnessed the crash or has dash cam footage of the incident or vehicles prior to the collision, to come forward.”
He said anyone with information should call 101, quoting reference number 2559 of 30 December, or report anonymously through Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.