A father-to-be from Kent has been killed in a hit-and-run in Colombia.

Actor Justin James Danton, originally from Margate, is thought to have been in South America on a work trip when the tragedy happened.

He and his partner had been expecting their first child, whom they had already decided to name Ethan.

But Justin was tragically killed last Monday, when he was struck by a hit-and-run driver in the Colombian city of Medellin.

He is believed to have been 37.

According to local news outlets, he had been in Colombia on an 11-month work trip that began in May.

He is believed to have been crossing a road when he was struck by a car, before the driver fled.

Local sources say he was rushed to hospital, but medics could not save him.

Justin's dad Lee Danton and stepmum Gemma have launched a fundraiser to help support his bereaved partner Mary Cruz Avendaño and unborn son, who is due in November.

In a post on a Gofundme page, they said Colombian police investigating the hit-and-run had "found the car" and located a suspect.

They wrote: "Soon our son can be at peace and we can begin the healing journey."

Lee and Gemma are keen to find a way to support Ms Avendaño through "an extremely financially vulnerable time".

"In memory of our son Justin and his great love for his girl Mary Cruz and their son Ethan we would like to offer everyone and anyone who knew him the humble opportunity to open up our hearts and give to his child who he will not see but we will flood with our compassion," they wrote.

"Large or small our love can conquer all.

"Rest in peace Justin our dear boy."

The fundraiser has already smashed through its $8,000 goal.

"The love and generosity of everyone is astounding," Lee said. "I can't thank everyone enough.

"All I know is this will help Mary Cruz and Ethan to soften the blow of such a loss. I am truly humbled."

Gemma added: "They are both doing well and the baby is very strong.

"The funds will go towards housing, furniture day-to-day living costs, all of the baby’s needs."

Justin was an actor, who studied acting in London and had starred in a number of short films and a music video.

A profile on acting jobs platform Mandy described him as a "fun, laid back creative".

The most recent project listed on the site was feature film The Legend of the Mad Axe Man.

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