Jerry Decrescenzo, 45, from Billingham, was found dead off Hartlepool's North Gare on Saturday lunchtime after being spotted by a member of the public.

It has since emerged he was due to face Teesside magistrates on Thursday charged with death by dangerous driving following an accident in Marsh House Avenue, Billingham, in May which led to the death of 56-year-old Judith Heavisides.

Victim's partner: I really feel for them >>

One of Mr Decrescenzo's sons, Chris McCall, said the family is "distraught" by his death and said he believes he took his own life as it was the only way he could deal with Ms Heaviside's death.

Chris, 25, who lives in Middlesbrough, said: "This is all over the crash. He always said if he ever killed or hurt someone he would have to do it to himself. He said he would have to do it to himself to make himself feel as they felt."

Mr Decrescenzo died days before he was due to celebrate his 46th birthday this Sunday, while the youngest of his eight children is seven on Saturday.

Mr Decrescenzo lived in Knole Road, Billingham, with his partner of 20 years Lyn Chambers, who he had four children with.

Mr McCall added: "He was a loving family man and always wanted what was best for his kids and family.

"He was a fun-loving outgoing family man who was a wind-up merchant. He will always be remembered."

His 24-year-old son Robert McCall, who is studying at a dance school in Leeds, added: "He was a doting father and he tried to keep everyone happy."

Mr Decrescenzo worked as a minibus driver for Billingham-based firm Crown Cars, and had worked for the company on and off for around 10 years.

Taxi boss Brenda Davis said: "He was a lovely guy. He would do anything for you.

"He was really pleasant and you couldn't wish to speak to a nicer bloke.

"I spoke to him on Friday night when I was leaving and I said 'hi' and 'okay' and he said he was smashing. He seemed okay.

"It came as a shock when we found out. He will definitely be a great miss."

Cleveland Police say they are not treating Mr Decrescenzo's death as suspicious.

A postmortem examination was due to be held today, and an inquest is expected to be opened tomorrow by deputy town coroner Karin Welsh.

A spokeswoman for the Crown Prosecution Service said the court case into Ms Heaviside's death will be discontinued once they have written confirmation of Mr Decrescenzo's death from the coroner.