Martin had been drinking at his regular sports bar, Castle 789, on Main St on Friday. Photos posted on social media showed him holding a pint of beer at the bar, a broad smile on his face. He had caught up with friends and workmates there, sometimes playing some poker.
He left the bar about midnight on Friday, police said. While walking on Main Rd, a Toyota Altezza driving on the same street clipped another car, hit a traffic island, and rolled onto the footpath, hitting Martin and then coming to rest against the roller door of a storage unit.
Martin died at the scene, police said.
Vinsen said he "never, ever" drove home and always either walked or caught a taxi.
"That's why it is hard for us to watch. You're on the pavement - you should be safe."
The incident was still very raw for his close-knit family, she said.
"He was a devoted family man. He was of Irish descent, which he was passionate about. He was a jovial fella, very loud and proud."
Police said today that a decision on what charges the driver could face would not be confirmed until an investigation was complete. That process could take months.
The driver and a passenger in the front seat suffered minor to moderate injuries in the crash, while another passenger had serious injuries.
Martin's funeral will be held at Lychway Funeral home in Palmerston North on Thursday, followed by morning tea at the bar where Martin spent his last evening.
