Her family have paid tribute calling her an ‘amazing person’ who was ‘the light in their lives’
A 16-year-old girl who died following a collision in Highgate has been named as Melissa Premaratne. Police were called at 08:13hrs on Thursday, 24 September following a collision involving a pedestrian and a car on North Road, Highgate.
Officers attended the scene alongside crews from the London Ambulance Service, London Fire Brigade and London’s Air Ambulance. Melissa was pronounced dead at the scene. Her next-of-kin have been informed and are being supported by specialist officers.
In a tribute, Melissa’s 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.”
A 68-year-old man was arrested at the scene on suspicion of causing death by careless driving. He has since been released on bail while enquiries continue. Detective Inspector Simon Ager, who is leading the investigation, said officers’ thoughts remained with Melissa’s family following her 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,” he said.
He added that officers were working to establish exactly what happened and were particularly keen to hear from anyone who witnessed the collision or had dashcam, CCTV or mobile phone footage from the area around the time it occurred.
A spokesperson from Highgate School, a private school, confirmed a Year 12 student was travelling to school when the incident occurred.
“It is with deep sadness that we share the news that one of our Y12 pupils died today on the way to school in a road traffic incident,” the spokesperson for the independent school said.
“This incredibly distressing news has come as a terrible shock to everyone at Highgate. Emergency services attended the scene and the police are currently investigating the situation.
“The family are being supported by specialist police officers and are receiving all the appropriate support. Out of respect for the family’s privacy, no further details will be shared at this time.
“We thank you for your understanding and compassion.”
The spokesperson added: “The loss of such a young life, so full of promise and hope, is deeply heartbreaking, and we extend our sincere and heartfelt condolences to her family, friends and all those affected by this awful news.
“She will be greatly missed, and we will continue to support her family, our pupils and staff, and the wider community, as we mourn her loss.”
The investigation remains ongoing. Anyone with information that may assist police is asked to call 101, quoting CAD1525/24Sept.
