A FAMILY have paid tribute to a "devoted" dad who died when a car ploughed into a crowd of people as he was trying to help a stranger.
Chris Marriott, 46, was walking in Sheffield with his wife and two young sons, aged eight and six, when he went to the aid of a woman he spotted lying unconscious in the street.
As Chris was providing first aid to the woman, a car collided with them both and others.
His family said that the circumstances of his death show the kind of man he was, always wanting to help and would never turn away from anyone in need.
In a tribute released through South Yorkshire Police, they described him as a "wonderful husband, dad, brother, uncle - and friend to many".
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The family tribute continued: "He devoted much of his life to helping others including at Sheffield College, Jubilee Foodbank and Debt Advice, Voluntary Action Sheffield, and more recently Community Money Advice and as a trustee of MASKK (Manor and Castle After School and Kids Klubs).
"The circumstances of his death, although tragic and unfathomable to us his family, show the sort of man he was - to go to help rather than to turn away.
"Chris was also a man of faith who wanted others to also experience the joy he had found trusting in Jesus.
"We take comfort in these most difficult of times in our belief that he is with his Lord and Saviour, while we mourn his loss.
"We would urge anyone with any information to share this so that we can understand better the circumstances in which he died."
A 23 year-old man arrested on suspicion of murder and attempted murder remains in police custody.
A 55 year-old man arrested on suspicion of murder and attempted murder has been released on police bail.
The woman Chris was helping remains in hospital in a life-threatening condition.
Chris worked as the IT manager for the national debt advice charity, Community Money Advice.
The company's team are shocked and heartbroken at the loss of their valuable team member who they described as "a man who loved people".
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Chief Executive, Heather Keates said: "Chris' kindness, work ethic, generosity and willingness to guide people through the intricacies of setting up IT were part and parcel of what made Chris a much loved and irreplaceable member of the Community Money Advice family.
"He died whilst administering first aid to a stranger, putting
their needs before his own safety. Chris was a true Good Samaritan.
"Our thoughts and prayers go out to his wife and their two boys at this so difficult time.
"We would ask you to join us in praying for them along with Chris' wider family and friends to know God's comfort and peace as they start to come to terms with their loss."
A Go Fund Me page has been set up for Chris' family.
Police are continuing to appeal for dashcam, CCTV footage and information that can assist detectives with their inquiry.
If you have any information to share please report it online, via live chat or by calling 101 quoting incident number 459 of 27 December 2023.
Footage can be submitted via email to crimestoppers-uk.org
