The family of a man who tragically died in a crash on the M1 have paid tribute to their “beloved dad, stepdad, partner, son, grandson and brother”.

Rowan Dodge, 31, from Melton Mowbray, was the driver of a white Volkswagen Golf involved in a collision with a Leyland DAF HGV on the southbound carriageway at around 4.40am on Sunday, March 16.

Emergency services responded to the incident, but Mr Dodge was sadly pronounced dead at the scene.

In a heartfelt statement, his family said:

“Rowan was a beloved dad, stepdad, partner, son, grandson and brother.

He was full of energy and always up for an adventure. He loved socialising and was the life and soul of the party – so much so his voice was the first anyone heard.

He was a keen rugby player and a loveable force who put a smile on everyone’s face.

We’re all heartbroken and devastated to lose such an incredible soul in such tragic and sudden circumstances. Nothing can fill the holes in our hearts that he’s left behind.”

The driver of the HGV did not suffer any physical injuries but was taken to hospital as a precaution and has since been discharged. No arrests have been made in connection with the collision.

Investigating officer PC Suki Sahota, from Leicestershire Police’s Serious Collision Investigation Unit (SCIU), said that the Golf is believed to have been involved in a previous incident before the fatal crash.

“We believe the Golf had been involved in a separate collision and had come to a stop in lane one of the motorway before being struck by the HGV.

I’m appealing to anyone who saw the Golf stationary in the left lane prior to the collision, or who may have relevant dashcam footage, to please come forward.”

Anyone with information is urged to visit the Leicestershire Police road traffic incident report page and quote incident 88 of 16 March, or call 101.

More from: M1 Fatal Crash