A "devastated" relative has paid tribute to Tom Rossiter, after the man accused of deliberately running him over and dragging him 100 metres up the road in Swanley was cleared of both murder and manslaughter.
During a trial, Maidstone Crown Court heard that Mr Rossiter died from multiple, severe injuries after being hit by Erasmus Ahwoi's Kia Venga during a failed drug deal in Lynden Way in July last year.
Following the verdict, Mr Rossiter's sister-in-law Gemma Lee paid tribute to a "loving father, husband, grandad and brother".
She said: "We as a family are devestated at the verdict.
"Tom was one of a kind - a friendly, loving father, husband, grandad and brother.
"His death has left a massive hole in our lives.
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"We can only be comforted by the thought of his honour Judge Carey handing him a high double figured sentence, if he does so.
"Thank you to all the witnesses, police and everyone who has supported us through this horrific time."
Detective Chief Inspector Nick Gossett said: "Mr Rossiter found himself trapped underneath the car as Ahwoi made no attempt to stop the vehicle and fled the scene.
"He suffered a number of horrific injuries which ultimately led to his death.
"I would like to thank the family for the dignity and courage they have shown throughout this investigation and witnesses for the evidence they have given, which has helped ensure Ahwoi was brought before the courts."
Ahwoi will be sentenced in the week commencing February 8.
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