Melissa Premaratne Obituary, HIGHGATE, London — Melissa Premaratne, a 16-year-old Year 12 student at Highgate School, has died after being struck by a car while on her way to school in north London on Thursday, September 24.
The Metropolitan Police said officers were called to North Road in Highgate at approximately 8:13 a.m. following a collision involving a pedestrian and a car. Emergency services attended the scene, where Melissa was pronounced dead.
Highgate School confirmed that Melissa had been on her way to school when the collision occurred. The teenager, who was of Sri Lankan origin, was a Year 12 student at the school.
A 68-year-old man who was driving the vehicle was arrested at the scene on suspicion of causing death by careless driving. Police later released him on bail as the investigation into the circumstances of the collision continues.
The vehicle involved in the incident belonged to private-hire company Addison Lee. The company said it was cooperating with the police investigation as officers continue to establish the circumstances surrounding the fatal collision.
Melissa’s family paid tribute to her following her death, describing her as a “light in our lives.” They remembered her for her kindness, warmth and spirit, reflecting on the qualities that made her deeply cherished by those who knew her.
Police have appealed to members of the public who may have witnessed the collision or who have dashcam, CCTV or mobile phone footage from the area around the time of the incident to come forward with information.
Melissa Premaratne’s death has left her family, school community and those who knew her mourning the loss of a young life. As the police investigation continues, her family remembers her as a source of light in their lives, and condolences go to everyone affected by her passing.
