Police were called at 3.23pm on Friday, January 7, following a collision involving three cars, a silver Mazda 2 Tamura, a blue Volkswagen Golf and a blue Volkswagen Tiguan.
Sadly, despite the best efforts of paramedics, the couple in the Tiguan, Roger and Christine Barton, aged 76 and 75 respectively, of High Street, Selborne, were pronounced dead at the scene.
Their family said: “Roger and Christine Barton lived very happily in Selborne for the past 30 years.
“They were wonderful caring parents to Robin, Georgina and Sophie and much adored grandparents to Freddie, Matilda and Ava.
“We are especially grateful to all the emergency services personnel for their time, professionalism and respect shown to our parents in what must have been a very challenging situation for them.”
Officers continue to investigate the exact circumstances of the collision.
A third pensioner driving the Golf was arrested on suspicion of causing death by careless driving and also one count of driving while unfit through drugs, and the Mazda driver suffered minor injuries.
Senior investigating officer Detective Sergeant Mark Furse said: “I want to hear from anyone who may have witnessed the collision or the moments leading up to it, particularly anyone with dash cam footage.
“Our thoughts are with Roger and Christine’s family at this tragic time, and we want to ensure they are able to understand the couple’s final moments.”
Witnesses, or drivers with dashcam footage of the incident, or any of the vehicles before the incident, are asked to contact police on 101, quoting Operation Preston, reference number 44220008042.
Alternatively, submit information online at https://www.hampshire.police.uk/tua/tell-us-about/cor/tell-us-about-existing-case-report/