By: Valerie Fuchs
A student who died after being struck by a van near The Strand on Tuesday has been described by her family as a “kind and beautiful soul.”
Aalia Mahomed, 20, was killed after a van hit pedestrians near The Strand and Somerset House at about 11:40 GMT on Tuesday 18 March. She was pronounced dead at the scene near King’s College London on Tuesday in a collision which also injured three people.
She was a second-year BSc Physics and Philosophy student at King’s College London.
According to Met Police, a 27-year-old woman was taken to hospital where she remains in a serious condition. Her injuries are not believed to be life-threatening. A 23-year-old man who was also injured was taken to hospital and has since been discharged.
The driver of the van, a 26-year-old man, was arrested at the scene on suspicion of causing death by careless driving. He was further arrested while in custody on suspicion of drug driving but has since been released on conditional bail while enquiries continue. The Met Police said that the crash was not being treated as terror-related.
“A Ray of Sunshine”
In a statement released through the Metropolitan Police on Thursday, Aalia’s family described her as “a bright, kind and beautiful soul, who brought joy and laughter to everyone. She was a ray of sunshine in our lives, and will be deeply missed by all her family and friends. Her light will always live on in our memories and her smile will be our strength as we get through this difficult time.”
Her family continues to be supported by specialist officers and have asked for privacy at this difficult time.
Flowers and tributes on post-it notes for Aalia Mahomed have been left at the scene near The Strand, reading “Rest in peace”, “I’m so sorry you were taken away so soon”, and “heartbreaking”.
Professor Shitij Kapur, Vice-Chancellor and President of King’s College London said in a statement on the tragic accident:
“A senseless tragedy struck our campus on Tuesday – a tragedy that has led to the loss of life of one of our students, Aalia Mahomed. […] Our thoughts are with her family, friends and loved ones during this incredibly difficult time, and we offer them our deepest condolences. Aalia’s family has asked that we respect their privacy as they mourn the loss of their daughter.
Another of our students is still in hospital and is in our thoughts. We are in touch with their family to ensure they feel supported.”
He added:
“Words often bring little comfort at these difficult times when what has happened cannot be reversed – but I hope that in supporting our students and staff, and honoring and remembering what has been lost, we will find a way forward.”
If you have been affected by the incident, the LSE Student Wellbeing Service (SWS) is here to support you. You can book an appointment with SWS for personalised assistance. Additionally, Spectrum Life offers 24/7 support for immediate help.
