ESSEX, UNITED KINGDOM — The family of a 39-year-old heavy goods vehicle (HGV) driver who was killed in a collision involving two lorries on the M25 has paid an emotional tribute to him, describing him as a devoted husband, loving father and faithful servant of God.
The victim, Legton Zulu, from Kettering, Northamptonshire, died after the crash on the anti-clockwise carriageway of the M25 near Junction 27 during the early hours of Tuesday, June 17.
According to Essex Police, officers were called to the scene at approximately 4:20 a.m. following reports of a collision involving two heavy goods vehicles.
Paramedics and other emergency responders attended the incident, but Mr Zulu was pronounced dead at the scene.
Police said the fatal collision happened while emergency services were already responding to a separate incident nearby. Earlier that morning, at around 3:08 a.m., firefighters and police had been dealing with a lorry fire between Junctions 26 and 27 of the motorway.
The motorway remained closed for several hours while specialist collision investigators carried out examinations and recovery teams removed the vehicles involved, causing significant disruption for motorists travelling through the area.
In a statement released through Essex Police, Mr Zulu’s family remembered him as a man whose life was dedicated to his family, faith and service to others.
“He was a devoted husband, a loving father to three beautiful boys, a faithful servant of God and a respected member of his community,” the family said.
They described him as compassionate, humble and hardworking, saying he always placed the needs of others before his own.
Mr Zulu had worked as a professional HGV driver for more than 15 years and was widely respected by colleagues for his professionalism, commitment and strong work ethic.
Outside his profession, he served as a deacon at Forward in Faith Ministries International (ZAOGA FIFMI), where he was known for mentoring others and actively supporting church and community activities.
His family said his sudden death has left an immeasurable void in the lives of his wife, three young sons, extended family, friends, church members and colleagues.
“His legacy of faith, love, kindness and generosity will continue to inspire everyone who had the privilege of knowing him,” the statement added.
Essex Police have launched an investigation into the circumstances surrounding the collision.
Officers are appealing to anyone who witnessed the crash or has dashcam footage from the M25 near Junction 27 during the early hours of Tuesday, June 17, to come forward.
Anyone with information is urged to contact Essex Police, quoting incident number 130 of June 17, to assist investigators.
Enquiries into the cause of the collision remain ongoing.
