Driver who died after crashing into tree and lamppost in Tipton named

Tributes have been paid to the victim, named locally as Craig Griffiths, who initially got himself out of the car after the smash but then suffered a cardiac arrest.

The crash happened near the former King Arthur pub at around 10.20pm on Tuesday

Paramedics treated him at the scene and he was taken to Russells Hall Hospital in Dudley where he later died.

Floral tributes have been placed at the crash site by friends and family.

Mr Griffiths, who was aged 26 and lived in Netherton, was described as a 'top bloke' who was 'everybody's friend'.

A passenger who was in the car with Mr Griffiths suffered a head injury and suspected fractured wrist and was also taken to Russells Hall.

The car was left with extensive damage following the smash. No other vehicles are believed to have been involved. The stretch of the Birmingham New Road was closed until 3.30am.

West Midlands Ambulance Service spokeswoman Claire Brown said: "The driver and passenger had managed to get out of the car unaided.

"Whilst the driver, a man, was being assessed and treated in the back of the ambulance his condition quickly deteriorated and he went into cardiac arrest.

"The ambulance crew and paramedic officer commenced resuscitation efforts and, due to his condition, left the scene for nearby Russells Hall Hospital under blue light conditions. Ambulance staff continued advanced life support en route to A&E. Sadly, despite the best efforts of ambulance staff and hospital medics nothing could be done to save the man and he was confirmed dead a short time later.

"The passenger of the car, a man, sustained a head injury and a suspected fractured wrist. He was immobilised with a neck collar and spinal board before being taken to the same hospital for further treatment."

Sergeant Paul Hughes, from the West Midlands Police's Regional Collision Investigation Unit, said: "As with all fatal road traffic collisions, we have started an investigation to build a picture of what happened.

"Lots of people stopped at the scene and gave us information."

Emotional friends of Mr Griffiths gathered at the crash site to lay tributes and pay their respects.

One of those friends, who did not want to be named, said: "He was a top bloke, it is a shame what has happened. Nobody had a bad word to say about him."

Friends also took to social media to pay tribute.

Hannah Walker posted on Twitter: "Can't believe the sad news this morning. RIP Craig Griffiths. My heart goes out to all his family."

And Lee Madelin wrote on Facebook: "Rest in peace Craig Griffiths, taken way to soon! Only saw ya last week an things were on the up!"