Dad 'who made friends everywhere' killed on road

Daniel stands in front of a brick wall. He has a bald head and is wearing a navy suit and white shirt with blue stripes. He is wearing a navy blue tie and you can see the top of a peach-coloured floral button holeImage source, Merseyside Police
Image caption,

Daniel Cairney's family have paid tribute to him after he was killed on Friday

  • Published

Tributes have been paid to the "most gentle and friendly" dad who died after being hit by a car.

Daniel Cairney, 77, died after he was struck by a silver Audi A3 close to an Asda supermarket in Walton, Liverpool, on Friday.

A 43-year-old man from Huyton who was arrested on suspicion of causing death by dangerous driving and drug driving has been bailed pending further inquiries.

Daniel's family have said they are "heartbroken that we never got to say goodbye".

"He was so proud to see one of his sons marry earlier this year, and he cherished every moment spent playing with his grandson," they continued.

"We are now left clinging to those precious memories."

An investigation into the death is ongoing and police are appealing for any witnesses to come forward.

They family said: "While he was taken far too soon, he truly lived a full and varied life.

"Originally from Scotland, he made Liverpool his adopted home, and the city he loved soon loved him back.

"The most creative person we knew, he loved to paint, play his guitar and write poetry.

"His neighbours have already been in touch to share their sadness and memories, such as how he would always stop for a chat or surprise people with small gifts. It doesn't surprise us. He made friends wherever he went, and his kindness knew no limits," they added.

The driver of the Audi stopped at the scene.

Daniel's family ended their tribute by promising to "always remember him" and to "treasure" the photos, diaries and mementos Daniel had kept throughout the years.

Det Sgt Andy Roper, the lead investigating officer, said: " we are looking to speak to anyone who witnessed the collision, or who was passing by the location.

"I want to thank members of the public for sharing our previous appeals. As a result, we have managed to speak to a mum who we wanted to trace as a possible witness and make sure she and her children were supported."

Get in touch

Tell us which stories we should cover on Merseyside

Listen to the best of BBC Radio Merseyside on Sounds and follow BBC Merseyside on Facebook, external, X, external, and Instagram, external. You can also send story ideas via Whatsapp to 0808 100 2230.

Related topics

More on this story