20-year-old physics student Aalia Mahomed died after being struck by a van near Kings College London, with two others injured.
An Outpouring of Tributes
The tragic incident that shook the Strand in central London saw tributes pour in for Aalia Mahomed, a 20-year-old student at King’s College London. The accident occurred at 11:41am on Tuesday, March 18, near the university. Despite immediate emergency response, she was pronounced dead at the scene. Her family described her as “a bright, kind and beautiful soul, who brought joy and laughter to everyone” in a statement following the incident.
Public and Police Response
The Metropolitan Police is actively investigating the accident, which occurred in a heavily trafficked area of London. The driver of the van, a 26-year-old man, was arrested on suspicion of causing death by careless driving. He was further arrested while in custody on suspicion of drug driving offences. He has since been bailed with conditions as the investigation continues. Witnesses reported seeing the van briefly airborne before striking Ms. Mahomed, who had been sitting on a bench.
Additional Victims
Two other pedestrians were also injured in the collision. A 27-year-old woman was taken to hospital, where she remains in a serious condition, though her injuries are not believed to be life-threatening. A 23-year-old man was hospitalized but has since been discharged. According to King’s College London, both are also students at the university.
University Response
Vice-Chancellor of King’s College London Shitij Kapur described the crash as a “senseless tragedy.” In a statement, he confirmed that Aalia was in her second year of study for her BSc in Physics & Philosophy in the Faculty of Natural, Mathematical & Engineering Sciences and Faculty of Arts & Humanities. The university is in contact with all affected families and is cooperating with authorities as the investigation continues.
The unfortunate event marks another somber reminder of the unpredictability of life and the need for communities to gather in support during times of crisis. Aalia’s family has requested privacy as they mourn the loss of their daughter.