Justin Danton, 'murdered' in hit-and-run while on work trip in Colombia

A British expat actor who was set to become a dad for the first time has been killed in a hit-and-run in Colombia.

Justin Danton was crossing the road when he was struck by the car travelling at high speed on August 9.

The driver sped off leaving the 37-year-old lying in the street.

Passers-by rushed to his aid and he was taken to a nearby hospital in Medellin with head injuries but doctors couldn't save him.

Tragic Justin, who died last Monday was set to become a father in November.

He and his grieving partner Mary Cruz Avendano had already chosen the name Ethan for their unborn son.

Justin, originally of Margate, Kent, had only moved to the south American country in May and was due to stay for 11 months.

He had gone to the South American country for work having previously starred in a movie called The Legend of the Mad Axe Man.

Justin has also appeared in short films called Beacon, Ready or Not and Resentment.

His death is being treated as murder.

Investigators have found the car and are set to question the suspect.

Justin's stepmum Gemma, 56, and dad Lee, 53 have set up a Go Fund Me to raise money for their unborn grandchild.

They have so far raised £4,400 of the target of nearly £6,000.

Mary Cruz thanked Gemma and said: "I have no words to thank you for what you are doing for us."

Gemma said: "We are all with you my darling heart.

"You are not alone. Help is on the way."

Justin's parents added that they would flood Mary Cruz "with our compassion".

"Rest in peace Justin our dear boy."

Gemma went on to say: "We would like you to know that the investigators have finally found the car and the person that committed this awful crime. "Soon our son can be at peace and we can begin the healing journey.

"The beautiful gift you have all given together is rapidly nearing its target and this week we can send the funds to Justin's son Ethan and Ethan's mama Mary Cruz who we love very much.

"They are both doing well and the baby is very strong with 'super powers' according to his physicians.

"The funds will go towards housing furniture day to day living costs all of the baby's needs as the mother is ordered to rest and take time to look after her child that grows inside her.

"Ethan is strong. This news makes my heart sing and I know it will make yours sing too. God bless you all from my family to yours you have made all the difference in the world."