Family pay tribute to man who died in collision

The family of a man who died in a collision in Tamworth have paid tribute to him.

Richard Radbourne, 47, of Tamworth, was riding his Harley Davidson motorbike when it was in collision with a black Audi Q3 on Comberford Road on Sunday evening (3 March). Sadly, Richard died at the scene.

In a tribute, Richard’s dad and step mum, Kevin and Sue Radbourne, said: “We are devastated to lose Richard at such a young age and in the prime of his life.

“Richard was a lovely man, and a very charismatic person, gave brilliant hugs, was generous with his time, and a very hard worker.

“His loss in such a senseless, horrific way will affect everyone for years to come.

“We would also like to say thank you to the emergency services who attended the what must have been an awfully traumatic scene and tried to bring him back to us but to no avail. Thank you to everyone who tried to help Richard, we are so very grateful to them all.

“We do ask people to respect our privacy at this very sad time.”

Richard’s partner, Haley Upton, said: “Rich was a loving partner and a protective family man to my children. He would help anyone he could, no matter how big or small.

“As a family, we are going to miss our caravan holidays, long walks together and his silly dances which always made us laugh. His passion was his motorbikes and his life ended doing what he loved the most.

“We would like to thank all the people who tried to help Rich and all the messages we have received, which show how loved he was.

“I would ask people to respect our privacy at this difficult time.”

Richard’s family and partner continue to receive support from specialist officers.

Murat Karakas, 51, of Tamworth, was charged with murder on Wednesday (6 March) and has been remanded into custody. He will next appear at Stafford Crown Court on 3 June.

We’ve created an online portal where people can leave information and any CCTV, smart doorbell or dashcam footage that they may have. You can access the Major Incident Public Portal here:

https://mipp.police.uk/operation/STAFFS24L06-PO1

To report anonymously, call Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.