A 16-year-old schoolgirl who was killed in a collision in Highgate has been named as Melissa Premaratne, as her heartbroken family paid tribute to her “beautiful spirit”.
Melissa was fatally injured on North Road just before 8.13am on Thursday, 24 September, as she made her way to Highgate School, where she was a Year 12 pupil.
Police and paramedics rushed to the scene, but the teenager was pronounced dead where she lay, a short distance from the school gates. A police cordon remained in place around the scene while officers carried out their initial enquiries.
“A light in our lives”
In a statement released through the Metropolitan Police, her family said: “Melissa was a light in our lives and an amazing person.
“We will miss her deeply, every single day.
“Her kindness, warmth, and beautiful spirit will always remain in our hearts.”
It is understood Melissa was walking to school at the time of the crash. A spokesperson for Highgate School described her as “full of potential and hope”.
Floral tributes line North Road
Since the police cordon was lifted on Thursday afternoon, dozens of floral tributes have been laid along North Road, as school friends, neighbours and members of the wider community came to pay their respects.
Melissa has been pictured for the first time since the collision, as tributes continued to pour in from across north London.
Man released on bail
A 68-year-old man who was arrested on suspicion of causing death by careless driving has been released on bail pending further enquiries.
DI Simon Ager said: “Our thoughts remain with Melissa’s family following her tragic death.
“The loss of a young life in such circumstances is truly devastating, and we recognise the profound impact this will have on all those who knew and loved her.”
Specialist officers continue to support Melissa’s family, and have asked that their privacy be respected at this incredibly difficult time. Detectives are urging anyone who witnessed the crash — or who has dashcam, CCTV or mobile phone footage from the area at around the time it happened — to come forward.
Anyone with information is asked to call 101, quoting reference CAD1525/24Sept.
