The first photo of the “heart of the family” Armando Mazzone, who died after being hit by a car

The bereaved family of a man who was killed in a collision in Wolverhampton have paid tribute to a “wonderful” father and family leader. Armando Mazzone, 91, died after being hit by a car on Penn Road in Wolverhampton earlier this month.

“Fiercely independent” Mr Mazzone was taken to hospital with serious injuries after being hit by a car at around 9.20am on Thursday 11 July. 999 crews attended the scene and treated Mr Mazzone on the side of the road for serious injuries before he was taken to the scene. Queen Elizabeth Hospital Birmingham.

Mr Mazzone sadly died in hospital four days later and an investigation by West Midlands Police is ongoing. The force confirmed on July 20 that the driver of the vehicle remained at the scene and was helping officers establish exactly what happened – but urged any potential witnesses to come forward in a renewed appeal.

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Mr Mazzone’s heartbroken family released a tribute to their father, grandfather, great-grandfather and great-great-grandfather on Saturday, saying his death had left a “huge hole” in their lives. A West Midlands Police spokesman said: “We are appealing for witnesses to a collision on Penn Road, Wolverhampton, after a 91-year-old pedestrian died in hospital.

“Armando Mazzone was taken to hospital with serious injuries after being hit by a car around 9.20am on Thursday 11 July. Mr Mazzone sadly later died in hospital and his family are being supported by officers as our investigation progresses.

“The driver of the vehicle remained at the scene and is assisting us as we work to establish exactly what happened.” Mr Mazzone’s family paid tribute, saying: “Armando Mazzone was a wonderful father of four.

“The best grandfather, great-grandfather and great-great-grandfather, a role he carried with pride. His family meant everything to him and was the heart of our family. He was fiercely independent and had a real zest for life.

“He was planning a future he could never live. Even at 91 he still had more years left in him. But it was taken from us so cruelly. He fought for four days in the hospital with his family at his bedside, surrounded by love.

“His passing has left a huge hole in our hearts and in our lives.” Sgt Julie Lyman, from the WMP’s serious collision investigation unit, said: “Our thoughts are with Mr Mazzone’s family at this terrible time. And we’re doing everything we can to identify the exact circumstances of the collision.

“Officers have spoken to a number of witnesses but we would appeal to anyone with further information or CCTV footage to come forward. We would also like to hear from people who were driving in the area at the time and have dashcam footage that would help our enquiries.”

Anyone who can help can contact WMP via Live Chat on our website or by calling 101 quoting log 1140 of July 11, or email [email protected]