Ilkeston: Man charged with murder of Samuel Wilson who died after van driven into group

A man has been charged with the murder of a 26-year-old who died after a van was driven into a group of people in Derbyshire.

Samuel Wilson, from Long Eaton, was struck by the vehicle, alongside two other men, in Ilkeston just after 2am on Saturday.

He died at the scene, while the other victims were taken to hospital and have since been discharged.

Derbyshire Police said Zac Newman has been charged with murder, wounding with intent and attempted GBH.

The 27-year-old, of The Crescent, Stapleford, will appear at Southern Derbyshire Magistrates Court today.

Mr Wilson’s sister said there were “no words” to describe their family’s loss.

“Our hearts will forever be broken, and there are no words to describe the huge hole it has left in all of our hearts,” she wrote on a JustGiving online fundraising page.

More than £7,000 has been raised for Mr Wilson’s family.

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Football club Curzon AFC, where Mr Wilson played, also posted a tribute on Facebook.

It said: “It’s with a very heavy heart that we have to share the news that our kind, loving, funny, talented Number 12 and last season’s player of the season Sam Wilson, tragically lost his life early hours this morning.

“We’ve not just lost a player, we’ve lost a friend, a brother, a son, a boyfriend and all round one of life’s good guys, his impact on all of our lives will never be forgotten!

“Sam we love you and we will all miss you. Until we meet again keep looking down on us with that infectious smile. Love you mate from all at AFC Curzon.”