Hayadulla Turkmani, 53, of Langdale Gardens, denied murdering 28-year-old Michael Ashton from Langdon Hills in Basildon, Essex.
Mr Ashton suffered life-threatening injuries in Rosecroft Close, Langdon Hills, after reportedly being hit by a car on Friday, September 26.
He died on October 4. Essex Police confirmed Mr Turkmani had been charged as the alleged killer two weeks later.
Dressed in a grey hooded sweatshirt, he appeared at Southend Crown Court to answer the murder charge on Monday, November 17.
He spoke only to confirm his identity and enter his not guilty plea, through an Afghan Dari interpreter.
His trial was set for April next year.
Judge Samantha Leigh ordered that he be held on remand until then.
Mr Ashton, who worked for Barking and Dagenham Council, was described in a family tribute as “hardworking, fun, loving and likeable”.
“He will be sadly missed by everyone who had the pleasure of meeting him,” they wrote.
“Michael had the most beautiful aura and lit up every room he entered with his handsome looks, his smile and his warm personality.
“He was loved by everyone and had such a kind soul. He didn’t have a bad bone in his body.”
