Dozens of floral tributes, cards and teddies have been left at the scene in Kilwinning for 12-year-old Sophia Aitken, who died after being struck by a bus on Tuesday afternoon.
Sophia was hit by the vehicle on Lauchlan Way, in the North Ayrshire town, at 1.10pm on Tuesday, November 3. It is understood the Kilwinning Academy pupil had been on her lunch break.
Tributes left at the scene
One card addressed to a "dear daughter" read: "Sophia, you were the best part of me, I will never love anyone like I loved you. Not a day will go by where I don't miss you. You are the most beautiful person I will ever know."
Another card laid at the scene was addressed to a sister, while other messages were left behind.
Earlier today, Sophia's parents paid tribute to their "ray of sunshine". A statement released through Police Scotland reads: "We are devastated at the loss of our darling daughter Sophia. She was a ray of sunshine, and was loved by everyone who knew her. A light has gone out, and it will never return. We are comforted by the messages from the community. We would like to ask for privacy to grieve at this difficult time."
School and community pay tribute
Teachers at Kilwinning Academy also paid tribute to the pupil, remembering her as having a "bright smile, vibrant personality and helpful nature".
In a statement, a North Ayrshire Council spokesperson said: "We would like to offer our sincere condolences to the family and loved ones of the Kilwinning Academy pupil who tragically died on Tuesday. Known for her bright smile, vibrant personality and helpful nature, she was a popular and well-liked member of our school community.
"This is a very difficult and emotional time for everyone who knew her, and support and guidance will be made available to any staff and pupils who need it in the coming days, weeks and months. The wider school community is devastated by her loss.
"No further details will be released out of respect to the family, and also because the tragedy is subject of an ongoing Police Scotland investigation."
Her dance school, The Dance Depot, described the young student as a "beautiful angel". A statement reads: "We are all deeply saddened by the devastating news yesterday. We send our deepest condolences, love and thoughts to the family and friends of a beautiful angel whose light will never be forgotten. To our students - we are thinking of you. We are here for you, we care for you and will support you through this difficult time. You are not alone."
Investigation ongoing
Police closed the road for around eight hours to allow an investigation to take place. No one else was injured in the crash.
Detectives say inquiries are ongoing and have appealed for any witnesses, particularly those with dash-cam footage, to come forward.
Sergeant Stewart Taylor said: "Our thoughts first and foremost are with Sophia's family and friends, and everyone affected by this crash. We know there were a lot of people out in the area at the time of this crash, and I'd like to thank those witnesses who have come forward in support of our inquiries, along with those who assisted at the scene.
"This incident will be felt by the local community and our investigation continues to establish what happened. If you have any relevant dashcam footage or information that has not already been provided to officers, please contact us as soon as possible."
Those with information should call Police Scotland via 101 and quote incident number 1484 of November 3.
