The family of Sophia Aitken, a 12-year-old girl killed after being struck by a bus in Ayrshire, have paid tribute to their daughter as "a ray of sunshine" and expressed their devastation at her death. According to BBC News, Sophia died on Tuesday after being hit by a Stagecoach bus at Lauchlan Way in Kilwinning and was pronounced dead at the scene.
The collision was reported to police at approximately 1.10pm on Tuesday, November 3, 2026, according to STV News. The Kilwinning Academy pupil was the only person reported to have suffered injuries in the incident. Inquiries into the circumstances of the crash remain ongoing.
In a statement released through Police Scotland, Sophia's family expressed their grief and gratitude for community support. They said:
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. We are comforted by the messages from the community. We would like to ask for privacy to grieve at this difficult time.
The family further described how "a light has gone out, and it will never return," emphasising that Sophia was "loved by everyone who knew her."
How did the school community respond?
Kilwinning Academy paid tribute to Sophia on Wednesday, highlighting the qualities that made her stand out among her peers. The school described her as someone "known for her bright smile, vibrant personality and helpful nature." North Ayrshire Council characterised her as a popular and well-liked member of the school community and confirmed that support services would be made available to both staff and pupils at the academy during this period.
What is the police investigation status?
Police Scotland continues to investigate the incident and is appealing for witnesses and information from the public. 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.
According to STV News, Stagecoach confirmed that one of its South Scotland buses was involved in the collision and stated that it was supporting its colleagues and assisting Police Scotland's investigation.
Flowers and tributes were left at the crash scene following the collision, reflecting the impact Sophia's death has had on the local community.
What happens next?
Police are asking anyone with relevant information or dashcam footage to contact them. According to STV News, members of the public should call 101 and quote incident number 1484 of November 3, 2026 when providing information to officers.
