A MAN who died when his car overturned in a one-vehicle smash at the weekend has now been named by police.

He was 26-year-old John Patrick Connors, also known as Johnny, who came from Malton, North Yorkshire.

His grieving family has paid tribute to him, saying: “He was a much loved son, brother, fiancé, uncle, grandson, nephew and friend.”

The statement added: “Rest in peace John, you are gone but not forgotten.”

The smash happened on the east-bound carriageway of the A64 at Whitwell-on-the-Hill, near York, at about 12.30am on Sunday, December 7.

It is believed Mr Connors’ black Mercedes was in the outside lane of the dual carriageway when it collided with the barrier in the central reservation and the vehicle overturned.

Mr Connors was pronounced dead at the scene and three passengers were taken to York District Hospital by ambulance.

A 22-year-old woman from Malton suffered serious leg injuries, an 18-year-old woman from Malton suffered neck and spinal injuries, and a 29-year-old man from the Knaresborough area suffered cuts and bruises.

Witnesses to the collision or anyone who saw a black Mercedes car in the area prior to the incident, are urged to call North Yorkshire Police on 101, select option two, and ask for the Major Collision Investigation Team. Alternatively, information can be emailed to MCIT@northyorkshire.pnn.police.uk