“SHE WAS A RAY OF SUNSHINE” — FAMILY’S HEARTBREAKING TRIBUTE TO SOPHIA AITKEN, 12, AFTER FATAL DOUBLE-DECKER BUS CRASH IN AYRSHIRE

The family of 12-year-old Sophia Aitken have shared their first heartbreaking tribute after the schoolgirl lost her life in a collision involving a double-decker bus in Kilwinning, North Ayrshire.

In a short but deeply emotional statement, Sophia’s loved ones described her as their “darling daughter” and a girl whose presence brought happiness to everyone around 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. A light has gone out, and it will never return,” the family said.

Their words offered a glimpse of the little girl behind the headlines — someone remembered not simply for the tragedy that took her life, but for the warmth and happiness she brought to the people who knew her.

The family also thanked members of the community for their messages of support and kindness during this incredibly difficult time.

They have asked for privacy as they try to come to terms with their loss.

WHAT HAPPENED ON LAUCHLAN WAY?

The tragic incident happened at approximately 1.10pm on Tuesday, November 3, 2026, on Lauchlan Way in Kilwinning.

Police Scotland confirmed that emergency services had been called following a collision involving a 12-year-old female pedestrian and a bus.

Despite the emergency response, Sophia was pronounced dead at the scene.

There were no reports of any other injuries.

The road was closed for several hours while officers carried out investigations and gathered evidence. It was subsequently reopened to traffic.

The incident has left the local community deeply saddened, particularly because of Sophia’s young age.

HER SCHOOL REMEMBERS A GIRL WITH A BRIGHT SMILE

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

Following her passing, a spokesperson for North Ayrshire Council paid tribute to the schoolgirl, describing her as someone known for her bright smile, vibrant personality and helpful nature.

The council also expressed its sincere condolences to Sophia’s family and everyone who knew and loved her.

In its statement, the council acknowledged how difficult the coming days and weeks would be for pupils and staff.

Support and guidance will be made available to members of the school community who need help coping with the loss.

For her classmates and teachers, Sophia’s absence will be felt in the familiar places where they once saw her smile, shared conversations and spent their everyday school days together.

POLICE CONTINUE INVESTIGATING THE COLLISION

Police Scotland confirmed that enquiries into the circumstances surrounding the collision remain ongoing.

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 members of the public who assisted at the scene.

Officers have appealed to anyone who may have information about the incident, including relevant dashcam footage that has not already been provided, to contact them.

Anyone with information is asked to call Police Scotland on 101, quoting incident number 1484 of Tuesday, November 3, 2026.

STAGECOACH RESPONDS AFTER BUS WAS INVOLVED

The bus involved in the collision was operated by Stagecoach.

Following the incident, the company’s regional director for Scotland, Fiona Doherty, expressed condolences to Sophia’s family and everyone affected.

She also confirmed that the company was supporting colleagues directly involved in the incident and would continue assisting Police Scotland with its enquiries.

The circumstances of the collision remain under investigation, and no conclusions about how it happened should be drawn before that process is complete.

A FAMILY LEFT WITH MEMORIES OF THEIR DARLING DAUGHTER

As the investigation continues, Sophia’s family’s words have become a poignant reminder of the personal loss behind the news.

For them, she was not simply a 12-year-old schoolgirl whose name appeared in headlines.

She was their daughter — a beloved child whose smile, personality and presence were part of their everyday lives.

Her school remembered her bright smile and helpful nature. Her family remembered a girl who was loved by everyone who knew her.

And those simple words, “a ray of sunshine”, capture the memories they want the world to hold on to.

The family now face the difficult days ahead without the daughter they loved so dearly.

Their request for privacy deserves respect as they grieve a loss that words cannot begin to describe.

Sophia Aitken will be remembered by her family, friends, classmates and the wider Kilwinning community.

A beloved daughter. A cherished schoolgirl. A ray of sunshine who will not be forgotten.