A father of two, Samindra Gurung, tragically died in a suspected hit-and-run incident on the A20 in Mersham le Hatch, near Ashford, on New Year’s Day. An inquest revealed that the 45-year-old was found lying on the road with a significant head injury by passersby.
Emergency services were called, but Mr. Gurung was pronounced dead at the scene.
Details from the Inquest
Opening the inquest in Maidstone, Coroner Katrina Hepburn stated:
“Samindra died on January 1, 2025, at the A20 near Mersham. Identification was by police. He was located by members of the public lying on the carriageway with a significant head injury.”
The cause of death was recorded as multiple injuries.
Police Investigation
Two men were arrested following the discovery of an abandoned silver Honda Jazz with substantial front-end damage in the Osborne Road area of Willesborough shortly after midnight. One man has been released without charge, while the other remains on bail as investigations continue.
“No one witnessed the collision,” added the coroner, “but the abandoned vehicle is believed to have been involved.”
Life and Legacy
Mr. Gurung, a traffic marshal originally from Nepal, lived in Pemberton Road, Ashford. He is survived by his wife Kamala and their daughter, who reside in Nepal, and a son living in the UK.
Childhood friend Ajaya Subba shared a heartfelt tribute:
“I was really sad to hear the tragic news about my childhood friend. We grew up together in Kapan, Saraswotinagar, Kathmandu, Nepal, and we were friends for 35 years.”
Ongoing Appeal for Information
The inquest has been suspended pending the police investigation. Officers are urging anyone with relevant information, including local residents with CCTV footage or drivers with dashcam recordings, to come forward.
Witnesses can contact the Serious Collision Investigation Unit on 01622 798538, quoting reference SM/MD/001/25, or email [email protected].
