Boy who died in crash on way to school in Stock named locally as Freddie Coleman

A 15-year-old boy who died after being hit by a vehicle has been named locally as Freddie Coleman.

He and another teenage boy were struck in Stock Road, in Stock, Essex, on Friday morning.

The second boy is in hospital in a critical condition.

Mayflower High School in Billericay, where the two boys attended as pupils, said it was a difficult time for the school community.

Dozens of flowers and letters have been left outside the school.

One note said the schoolboy was "always the light in lessons" and "made sure everyone had a good laugh".

Another said he had "gone too soon" and another read he would be "missed by everyone".

Damian Lee, headteacher at Mayflower High School, said in a letter to parents on Friday: “I am writing to regrettably inform you that two of our students were involved in a road traffic accident this morning.

“Sadly, one of the students passed away and the other student has been airlifted to hospital.

“The families of the students are being supported by a specialist police liaison team."

“We understand this is a very difficult time for our students,” he said, adding: “Our thoughts and prayers are with the families involved.”

A 23-year-old man was arrested on suspicion of dangerous driving, and drink or drug driving. He has since been released under investigation.

Essex Police say it is continuing to investigate the fatal crash.

Detective Inspector Mark Fraser said: “This tragic incident has had a huge impact on the community.

“Our detectives are carrying out a number of enquiries, including reviewing dashcam footage and CCTV to determine the circumstances around this collision.

“We are continuing to appeal to anyone who may have any information to contact us.”

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