Family ‘devastated’ after death of PE teacher hit by car in Fife

Tributes have been paid a PE teacher of over 30 years killed after being hit by a car in Fife.

Emergency services were called to the A92 near Freuchie around 11.50pm on Thursday following a collision between a male pedestrian and a red Suzuki Swift.

The 51-year-old man was pronounced dead. He has now been named as Daren Baillie.

His family released a statement saying his death has left a “huge void” in the lives of those who knew him through his work as teacher at Bell Baxter High School in Cupar.

It read: “We are devastated by Daren’s tragic death and wish to express our gratitude for the support received.

“Daren was a much-loved husband, dad, son, brother and friend whose sudden passing has left a huge void in the lives of all who knew him.

“He spent 30 years as a PE teacher in Fife and took immense pride in the positive impact he had on his students, with a particular focus on supporting the most vulnerable learners to achieve their very best.

 “We would like to thank the emergency services for their efforts and kindly ask for privacy as we mourn the loss of a dearly loved family member.”

Lynn Black, Bell Baxter High School headteacher said: ” Daren was an outstanding teacher, colleague and friend. He had a real gift for working with some of our most vulnerable learners and was deeply committed to supporting young people to achieve their very best. His loss will be felt deeply across our school community. 

“Our thoughts and heartfelt condolences are with Daren’s family, friends and loved ones at this incredibly difficult time.”

The female driver of the Suzuki was uninjured, and enquiries are ongoing to establish the full circumstances of the crash.

Sergeant David Keeney, of the Road Policing Unit, said: “Our thoughts remain with Daren’s family and friends at this difficult time.

“We are continuing to appeal for information and would ask anyone who witnessed the crash or may have dash-cam footage which could assist, to contact us as soon as possible.”

Anyone with information should call Police Scotland on 101, quoting incident number 3622 of October 15.