12-YEAR-OLD SCHOOLGIRL SOPHIA AITKEN REMEMBERED AS A “RAY OF SUNSHINE” AFTER FATAL BUS COLLISION IN SCOTLAND

A Scottish community is mourning the loss of a 12-year-old schoolgirl who died after being struck by a double-decker bus, as her family and school remember her as a bright, kind-hearted girl who brought happiness to those around her.

Sophia Aitken, from Kilwinning in North Ayrshire, was involved in the fatal collision on Lauchlan Way at approximately 1:10 p.m. on Tuesday, November 3, 2026.

Emergency services were called to the scene after reports of a collision involving a pedestrian and a Stagecoach double-decker bus. Despite the efforts of responding emergency crews, Sophia was pronounced dead at the scene. Police said no other injuries were reported.

HER FAMILY’S HEARTBREAKING TRIBUTE

Sophia’s family released an emotional statement through Police Scotland, describing their daughter as someone whose presence brought light into the lives of everyone who knew her.

“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.”

They continued:

“A light has gone out, and it will never return. We are comforted by the messages from the community. We would like to ask for privacy to grieve at this difficult time.”

Their words have resonated with residents and others who have shared messages of sympathy following the tragedy.

SCHOOL AND COMMUNITY LEFT DEVASTATED

Sophia was a pupil at Kilwinning Academy, where she was remembered as a popular and well-liked member of the school community.

A spokesperson for North Ayrshire Council said she was known for her bright smile, vibrant personality and helpful nature.

The council also expressed its condolences to Sophia’s family and loved ones, adding that support would be made available to pupils and staff affected by the loss.

The tragedy has also deeply affected people in Kilwinning. Floral tributes have been placed near the scene, as residents come together to remember the young girl and show support for her grieving family.

One parent told The Scottish Sun that their son had been heading to lunch from school when he heard what happened.

Other residents described the incident as devastating, saying the entire community was struggling to process the loss.

POLICE INVESTIGATION CONTINUES

Police Scotland confirmed that officers are continuing to investigate the circumstances surrounding the collision.

Sergeant Stewart Taylor said:

“Our thoughts first and foremost are with Sophia’s family and friends, and everyone affected by this crash.”

He also thanked witnesses who had come forward and people who assisted at the scene, noting that investigators were working to establish exactly what happened.

Lauchlan Way was closed while emergency services and investigators attended. The road later reopened, and the Stagecoach bus involved was removed from the scene.

Police are appealing for anyone with relevant information or dashcam footage that has not yet been shared with officers to come forward.

Anyone who can assist is asked to contact Police Scotland on 101, quoting incident number 1484 of November 3, 2026.

For now, Sophia’s family, classmates and the wider Kilwinning community are facing an unimaginable loss.

A young girl remembered for her bright smile and warm personality is being mourned by those whose lives she touched. Her family has asked for privacy as they grieve, while messages of support continue to arrive from the community.