Stagecoach issues updated response over "deeply sad" bus crash where boy died
A Stagecoach driver was arrested
A bus company has issued an updated response following a “deeply sad” incident that led to the death of a boy.
A 14-year-old Portsmouth boy who was left fighting for life after the horror crash at The Hard on Monday around 4.15pm was confirmed to have died by police on Thursday.
The driver of the Stagecoach bus, a 39-year-old man from Portsmouth, was arrested on suspicion of causing serious injury by dangerous driving and then released on bail until 17 November while further enquiries are carried out.
Now following the tragic news of the boy’s death, a Stagecoach spokesperson has said: “We are deeply saddened to hear of the death of the 14-year-old boy following the incident involving one of our buses. Our thoughts are with his family and friends at this extremely difficult time.
“We are assisting the police with their investigation and, given that this is an ongoing matter, it would not be appropriate for us to comment further on the circumstances of the incident at this stage.
“We would ask that the privacy of the boy’s family is respected at this very difficult time.”
Confirming the boy’s death to The News on Thursday, a police spokesperson said: “The pedestrian, a 14-year-old boy from Portsmouth, was taken to hospital with life-threatening injuries and has since sadly passed away. His family are being supported by specialist officers.”
A note attached to flowers left at the scene, which is close to a bus transport hub, says: “RIP Fly High. I will never forget our memories. We had such a good time in science.
“Can’t believe what happened. We will all miss u lots. Forever 14.”
Police have appealed to anyone who witnessed the incident or has any information, including dash cam or CCTV footage, to call 101 quoting reference 44260399748.