The family of a young dad who died in a Christmas Eve accident have described him as a precious and deeply loved son”.
Fraser Gibbon is understood to have been working on a green mini-loader when it was struck by a burgundy Vauxhall Insignia estate on the B9170 Cuminestown-New Deer road in Aberdeenshire..
The 20-year-old died at the scene and the road was closed for six hours as police carried out an investigation – and officers have appealed for witnesses.
Last night, his family released a joint statement describing the farm worker as a “proud father” and “precious and deeply loved” son who was “taken from us far too soon”.
They said: “Fraser was ripped from our lives and has left a massive hole that can never be filled.
“Fraser was described by all who knew him as a gentle giant, very much a family person who would do anything for anyone.
“We would also like to offer sincere thanks to all who assisted at the scene.”
In an online post, his uncle, Sonny Milne, said his nephew’s death had left a “big hole in his heart”.
Mr Gibbon is survived by his own daughter, three sisters and parents Anne and Donald.
Police have appealed for witnesses to the accident to come forward.
Sergeant Jon Barron, who is heading the investigation, said: “This is a harrowing incident that has very sadly resulted in the tragic loss of life.
“First and foremost, our thoughts at this particularly traumatic time are with Fraser’s family and friends.
“I would like to take this opportunity to urge any potential witnesses to come forward and speak to us.
“In particular, the inquiry team are interested in speaking to anyone who witnessed the actual collision, anyone who saw either of the vehicles – a green mini-loader and red Vauxhall Insignia motor car – prior to the incident or who may have been driving in the immediate area around the time.”
Central Buchan councillor Jim Ingram had described news of the young man’s death as “terrible”.