Alleged car crash murder victim was 'patient man'

Arlind Xhokola's girlfriend said he "was always there for everyone"

A family has paid tribute to a 26-year-old man who police believe was deliberately hit and killed by a driver.

Arlind Xhokola died at the scene near a cycle path off Momples Road in Harlow, Essex, shortly after the crash at about 17:30 GMT on Saturday.

The family of the construction worker, from London, said he was a "mellow, relaxed and patient" man who was "loved by many".

Jeremy Heath, 50, of Ladyshot, Harlow, has appeared in court accused of his murder.

In a joint statement, the family said he was a "very friendly" and supportive person.

"Arlind made a positive impact on his family and friends and this is a shock to all of us, but Arlind made us all become closer and together we are mourning his death as a community," they said.

His girlfriend, who has not been named, said he had been "family-orientated since a very young age" and had said he wanted to have children.

"He was person who was always there for everyone," she explained.

Police believe his death could be related to the robbery of a Ford Fiesta nearby

Mr Heath has also been charged with robbery and possession of a knife in a public place.

He was remanded in custody at Chelmsford Magistrates' Court earlier, to appear at the city's crown court for another preliminary hearing on Thursday.

Police said three other men from Harlow, aged 37, 39 and 50, were still being questioned on suspicion of robbery and murder in connection with Mr Xhokola's death.

A fifth man, 42, was held on suspicion of assisting an offender and has been released on bail.

Essex Police is exploring the possibility his death was connected to the robbery of a Ford Fiesta in nearby Pennymead, Harlow, at about 16:00 that day.

Det Insp James Holmes said the force was not looking for any other suspects but appealed for more information.