POLICE have named the young woman killed in a collision in central London as 20-year-old Aalia Mahomed, a second-year physics and philosophy student at King's College London (KCL).
The incident occurred on Tuesday (18) morning when a van mounted the pavement near KCL's campus on The Strand. Mahomed was pronounced dead at the scene, while two other pedestrians were injured.
In a heartfelt tribute, Mahomed'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."
Professor Shitij Kapur, KCL's vice-chancellor and president, expressed the university's grief: "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."
A 27-year-old female student remains in hospital with serious injuries following the accident, though they are not believed to be life-threatening. A 23-year-old man who was also taken to hospital has since been discharged.
The driver of the Transit van, a 26-year-old man, was arrested at the scene on suspicion of causing death by careless driving. While in custody, he was further arrested on suspicion of drug driving offences. He has since been released on bail with conditions as police continue their investigation.
Detective chief superintendent Christina Jessah, who is responsible for policing in the area, said, "This was a tragic incident which has deeply affected the community. I commend the actions of the emergency services and members of the public, who provided aid to those involved who tried to save this young woman's life and help the others who were injured."
The Metropolitan Police stressed that the incident is not being treated as terrorism-related and have urged the public to avoid speculation online.
"We are aware of inaccurate speculation online about this incident being terrorism related," said Jessah. "We ask the public to refrain from this speculation to protect the integrity of the ongoing investigation and avoid causing further suffering to the family of the young woman."
Chief superintendent Thomas Naughton of the Met's Roads and Transport Policing Command described the investigation as "complex" and said it "remains a priority to ensure justice for those affected."
Police are continuing to gather CCTV footage and statements from witnesses who were at the scene. The area, which was cordoned off following the incident, has since reopened, though there remains an increased police presence as investigations continue.
Specialist officers are supporting Mahomed's family, who have asked for privacy during this difficult time.
Anyone with information about the incident is asked to call police on 101 or contact @MetCC on social media, quoting reference CAD 2771/18MARCH. Those wishing to remain anonymous can contact Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
