Tributes have been paid to ‘popular’ man who died when he became trapped underneath his car.

Sarunas Masionis was attempting to fix the parking brake of his car when it fell on top of him.

Despite the best efforts of his girlfriend, neighbours and the emergency services, the 20-year-old died at the scene of the incident on Mingay Road, Thetford, on Thursday.

Mr Masionis, who was originally from Lithuania, worked for Chase Plastics, based in Brandon.

The firm’s managing director Jessica Baker said: “We were shocked and saddened to hear about Sarunas’ tragic and fatal accident.

“He was a popular and valued member of staff with a positive attitude.

“He is a real loss to the team here at Chase Plastics Ltd, and will be sadly missed.

“Our thoughts are with his friends and family at what must be a very difficult time.”

Mr Masionis’ girlfriend of two years, Viktorija Galvanauskaite, said she had walked outside the house to ask how he was getting on with the car, and found him unresponsive.

The 18-year-old described him as a ‘lovely man’.

“He was a really nice person. Such a lovely person,” she said.

She added: “He was going to be 21 next Thursday. We were planning a birthday party and a trip to Lithuania next month.”

Thetford Town councillor Denis Crawford expressed his condolences.

He said: “I am really sorry to hear a member of the Thetford community has died in such tragic circumstances.

“My thoughts go out to his girlfriend and family.”

Tributes have also been paid on social media.

Andy Brand said: “This is awful. Thoughts go out to his girlfriend and family.”

Marion Thorpe said: “So very sad. Thinking of his family and friends.”

Nigel Podd said: “Our thoughts go out to the family and friends, life is not fair sometimes.”

Rachel Pease said: “My thoughts go to the man, his girlfriend and family r.i.p so tragic.”

And Jacky Beaven said: “How tragic. So sad for all involved.”

Police have said they are treating Mr Masionis’ death as a sudden death.

A file would be prepared for the coroner.