Freddie Coleman: Family in shock as 'kind, funny' boy, 15, killed in car crash on his way to school
Freddie Coleman, 15, was hit by a car on Friday while waiting with friends near a bus stop in Essex
ESSEX, NEW YORK STATE: A car crashed into a 15-year-old boy and another teenager on their way to school, killing the former and leaving the latter fighting for his life.
Freddie Coleman, 15, was hit by a car on Friday while waiting with friends near a bus stop in Essex, as reported by Daily Mail.
Freddie Coleman was pronounced dead at the scene
At approximately 8.20 am on Friday, emergency personnel were dispatched to Stock Road following reports of a car hitting two children. Freddie was pronounced dead at the scene. A second teenage boy was taken from the scene by airlift to a hospital, where he is still in critical condition.
Jason and Jo, Freddie's devastated parents, described how much everyone loved their "kind, happy, funny boy" and requested privacy during this "dreadful time."
Both boys were students at Mayflower High School in Billericay, located just half a mile from the scene of the accident. Numerous flowers, candles, and messages have been left at the school after the tragedy.
Suspect in custody
A 23-year-old man was taken into custody on suspicion of driving while intoxicated or under the influence of drugs, causing significant injury by driving dangerously, and causing death by driving in relation to the collision. He was later granted bail.
Jason and Jo issued the following statement through Essex police: "Our beautiful boy Freddie, a much-loved son, grandson, brother, nephew and uncle sadly died on November 3 at 8.30 am."
The statement adds, "He was loved by everybody who knew him, our kind, happy, funny boy. Please respect our privacy during this dreadful time."
A book of condolences has also been opened by Mayflower High School, and in just 48 hours, a fundraiser established to assist Freddie's family has raised more than £25,000 ($30,690).
School releases statement
In a social media statement, the school said, "Following the tragic news on Friday we want to thank all of our community for their overwhelming support."
The statement continued, "Should students, staff, or members of the public wish to leave any flowers then they are welcome to. There is a memorial of flowers by our sign at the front of the school."
"We will also have a book of condolence available in main reception should you wish to leave a message," it added.
Essex police investigation is 'active and progressing'
Though detectives have made an appeal for information that may aid in their investigation, Essex police stated today that their investigation is "active and progressing."
DI Mark Fraser said, "This tragic incident has had a huge impact on the community. Our detectives are carrying out a number of enquiries, including reviewing dashcam footage and CCTV to determine the circumstances around this collision."
He added, "We are continuing to appeal to anyone who may have any information to contact us."
