A tribute to Darren Reilly

The family of a man who was killed in a collision on the M1 have paid tribute to a ‘brilliant dad’ who lived life to the full.

Fifty Five year old Darren Reilly was travelling along the southbound carriageway near Watford on the evening of Monday 1 April when the car he was in left the motorway and collided with trees.

In a tribute, Darren’s two daughters said:

“Our dad was a brilliant dad. In fact, the best dad who loved us with all his heart.  

“He would do anything for anyone in his heart and made sure he went above and beyond for his own. He lived life to the absolute max. In his 55 years he did more than anyone else could manage in two lifetimes.

“Dad had the biggest personality, the biggest heart and when he was passionate about something, everyone knew. He was the most spontaneous man and such a loveable rogue.

“He will be missed by his friends, family and everyone that knew him. He leaves a large void in our family, a void that will never be filled.”

The family have asked for their privacy to be respected at this sad and difficult time.

Darren was one of five occupants travelling in the car at the time of the collision. Eighteen year old Tyler Cox also sadly passed away, while another woman remains in hospital with serious injuries. Two others – a male and a female – continue to recover at home.

The collision took place between junctions six and five on the M1 at around 8.10pm and anyone with information that could assist the ongoing investigation can report it online at herts.police.uk/report, speak to an operator in our Force Communications Room via our online web chat at herts.police.uk/contact or call the non-emergency number 101 quoting Op Dolan.

Alternatively, you can stay 100% anonymous by contacting the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 or via their untraceable online form at crimestoppers-uk.org.