Family Pay Tribute To 'Kind And Caring' A27 Crash Victim

The family of a 20-year-old man who died in a collision on the A27 have paid tribute to his "warmth, energy and kindness".

Edward 'Bunty' Pearce, from Heathfield, was travelling to work when he suffered fatal injuries in the crash near Pevensey on 13th July.

In a statement, his family said:

"Edward was a much-loved son, family member, and friend. He lived life with boundless energy.

"His days were always filled with purpose, laughter, and adventure. He brought warmth, energy, and kindness to everyone around him, and had a remarkable ability to make people feel at ease.

"While this loss is unimaginable for us, we take comfort in the love Edward shared throughout his life and the lasting impact he had on so many people."

Edward was training as a plumber and hoped to work in Australia. His family said he was also the brother of William, who died from leukaemia 14 years ago.

During William's illness, Edward became a bone marrow donor for his older brother at the age of four.

They added that, in keeping with his generous nature, Edward later became an organ donor. Following his death, six of his organs were donated, helping to save the lives of seven people.

His family said his kindness and compassion would leave a lasting legacy, adding that funeral details will be announced in due course.

Sussex Police continue to investigate the collision, which happened at around 6.30am on the westbound A27 approaching Golden Jubilee Way and involved a white Mercedes Sprinter van and a white VW Caddy van.

Officers are appealing for motorists who passed the broken-down VW Caddy before the collision, or anyone with dashcam footage from the area, to come forward.

A 31-year-old man from Bexhill, who was driving the Mercedes Sprinter, was arrested on suspicion of causing serious injury by dangerous driving and drug driving. He has since been bailed while enquiries continue.

Anyone with information is asked to contact Sussex Police, quoting Operation Wickham.