A roadside breakdown mechanic who was killed while helping a stranded motorist has been praised for his bravery and dedication by his grieving partner.
Father-of-four Ryan Balls, 37, died after being struck by a car in broad daylight and dry conditions on the A11 dual carriageway after being called to a broken-down vehicle.
The teenage driver of the car which hit him was arrested on suspicion of causing death by careless driving.
The accident happened on Sunday lunchtime at Besthorpe, Norfolk, around, 15 miles from Norwich, and the road was closed while an air ambulance landed to provide emergency treatment but he died on the scene.
His partner Sophie Bailey paid heartfelt tribute to Ryan and other hi-vis heroes on social media after a local newspaper report quoted from a Norfolk Police press release describing him simply as ‘a man who was standing outside a vehicle.’
‘Ryan was my partner, and I feel I need to say something,’ Ms Bailey said, ‘Because [the report] doesn’t reflect who he was or what he was doing that day.
‘He wasn’t just “a man standing outside a vehicle.”
‘Ryan was working, doing the job he was passionate about recovering a broken-down car and helping someone who was stranded on the A11. He went out that day, as he always did, to help people in need and to make the road safer for everyone.
Ryan Balls, 37, (pictured) died after being struck by a car in broad daylight and dry conditions on the A11 dual carriageway after being called to a broken-down vehicle
‘On Sunday, he never came home. Our children have lost their dad, and I have lost my soulmate. His mum has lost her oldest son and his brother has lost his only sibling.
‘Nothing will ever take away our pain, but I want people to know the truth: Ryan lost his life while doing his job, helping someone in need, not because he was carelessly on the road.
‘Ryan was a dedicated recovery driver and mechanic, but more importantly, he was a Loving son, brother, partner and the most devoted dad to our children.
‘He worked so hard to provide for us, and he always put others first whether it was family, friends, or strangers in need on the roadside.
Please, if you read this, remember the people like Ryan who put themselves in dangerous situations to keep others safe.
‘Slow down, pay attention, and always think about the families behind the hi vis jackets. Ryan deserves to be remembered for the good man he was, and for the life he gave in service to others.’
A family friend told the Daily Mail that Ryan ran an independent breakdown service called RB Autos from his home in Diss, Norfolk.
‘He had two young sons and is also a stepfather to two other children who call him dad,’ said the friend. He was a fantastic man.’
His partner Sophie Bailey paid heartfelt tribute to Ryan and other hi-vis heroes on social media
It is the fourth close family bereavement suffered by Ryan’s mother Judith, 63, the friend revealed. ‘She has had it tough the last few years, losing her husband John in 2023 and her sister, then her mother and now her son.’
Another friend of the family set up a GoFundMe page, announcing: ‘It is with heavy hearts that we share the devastating news that Ryan has tragically passed away.
‘Ryan was not only a beloved father, brother, and son, but also a cherished friend to so many. His sudden loss has left an unfillable void in the lives of everyone who knew and loved him.
‘Ryan’s family has endured so much heartache recently, facing multiple losses in such a short time. Now, as they grieve this unimaginable tragedy, they are also facing the overwhelming costs of arranging Ryan’s funeral and providing support for his children and loved ones.
‘We have created this GoFundMe to help ease the financial burden on Ryan’s family during this incredibly difficult time. Your donations will go directly toward covering funeral and memorial expenses, supporting Ryan’s children, ensuring they are cared for during this heartbreaking transition and helping his family find stability and healing after so much loss.’
‘No amount is too small — every contribution, every share, and every message of love makes a difference. If you are unable to donate, we kindly ask that you share this page and keep Ryan’s family in your thoughts and prayers.’
A Norfolk Police spokesperson said the death occurred after a man was struck by a black Ford Puma ST.
‘Ryan was working, doing the job he was passionate about recovering a broken-down car and helping someone who was stranded on the A11,’ she said
‘The man, aged in his 30s, died at the scene. The driver of the Ford Puma, a man in his late teens, was arrested on suspicion of causing death by careless driving.
‘He was taken to Wymondham Police Investigation Centre for questioning and has since been released on bail until December 5.
‘Officers would like to speak to anyone who may have witnessed the collision or who has any relevant dashcam footage.
‘Anyone with relevant information should contact Norfolk Constabulary quoting reference 36/64383/25.’
