TRIBUTES have flooded social media after Coventry schoolgirl Sophia McDonald died when she was hit by a slow moving skip lorry in Wood End while she was trying to cross the road.
Sophia’s life was cut tragically short on Tuesday (October 18) afternoon.
Emergency services were called to Henley Road, Wood End, in Coventry at 4pm.
But despite the best efforts of all medical staff present, including a GP from a nearby practice who was on the scene almost immediately, nothing could be done to save the ‘much-loved’ seven-year-old.
The man driving the skip lorry was also assessed by ambulance staff and was taken to George Eliot Hospital.
Hundreds of people have taken to social media to pay their respects to the ‘gorgeous girl’ – and flowers with written tributes adorn the roadside where the incident took place.
Sophia’s mum Yvonne has since changed her profile picture on Facebook to a photo of her beautiful smiling girl at school.
One tribute online read: “RIP Sophia, such a beautiful little princess.”
Another said: “RIP Sophia, a beautiful child taken too soon.”
Someone close to the family posted the following online: “RIP beautiful girl – will miss you when driving past and you waving at us, sleep tight princess.”
Meanwhile, another tribute said: “RIP beautiful – taken way too soon. So, so sad – been thinking about the family since it happened all my heart & love goes out to you all at this sad horrific time.”
Another reads: “RIP beautiful. Taken far too young, too precious for this earth – fly high Sophia.”
Police are now appealing for anyone who witnessed what happened or has information to come forward.
Sergeant Alan Wood, from the Regional Collision Investigation Unit, said the investigation is in its early stages and enquiries are continuing.
He added: “I would appeal to any drivers or passengers who were in the traffic near to the collision to come forward.
“This includes a small turquoise car and a black taxi cab.
“This appears to have been a tragic accident – our thoughts are with the family of the little girl at this difficult time, who are being supported by specialist officers.”
Anyone with information should contact Sergeant Wood or his team by calling 101.
