Sophia Aitken, a 12-year-old girl, has died after being hit by a double-decker bus in Kilwinning, Scotland. The incident occurred on Lauchlan Way around 1:10 p.m. on Tuesday. Sophia was pronounced dead at the scene.
The road was closed for investigations into the collision and reopened later that evening. Police Scotland has launched a probe to determine the full circumstances of the incident. No other individuals were injured.
Sophia's family released a statement through Police Scotland, describing her as "a ray of sunshine" who was "loved by everyone who knew her." They added, "A light has gone out, and it will never return." The family expressed comfort from community messages and requested privacy during their grief.
Investigators were observed inspecting the bus, which was subsequently towed away. A local parent told The Sun that their son heard the incident and screams, describing it as a "terrible" event that left bystanders traumatized.
Sergeant Stewart Taylor appealed for witnesses and anyone with relevant dashcam footage to come forward to assist with the ongoing investigation. "Our thoughts first and foremost are with Sophia's family and friends, and everyone affected by this crash," he stated.