A 16-year-old girl was killed after being struck by a taxi near her north London school on Thursday morning. Melissa Premaratne died at the scene following the collision on North Road in Highgate, shortly before 8:15 a.m., as she was walking to Highgate School. Emergency services, including police and an air ambulance, responded to the incident.

The vehicle involved was an Addison Lee taxi, driven by a 68-year-old man who was arrested at the scene on suspicion of causing death by careless driving. He has since been released on bail pending further investigation. Witnesses reported that Melissa was crossing at a zebra crossing and became trapped under the car for several minutes, prompting a swift response from bystanders and emergency personnel.

The Metropolitan Police have launched an ongoing investigation to determine the exact circumstances of the collision. Detective Inspector Simon Ager, leading the inquiry, said authorities are keen to hear from anyone who witnessed the event or who may have dashcam, CCTV, or mobile phone footage from the area at the time. He expressed condolences to Melissa’s family, describing the loss as devastating for all who knew her.

Melissa’s family paid tribute to her in a statement, describing her as “a light in our lives” and an “amazing person” whose “kindness, warmth, and beautiful spirit” will be deeply missed. Highgate School also issued a statement expressing shock and sorrow at the news. The school called the loss “deeply heartbreaking” and extended its condolences to Melissa’s family, friends, and the wider school community. They said support would continue for pupils, staff, and those affected as they mourn her passing.

Addison Lee confirmed awareness of the incident involving one of its vehicles in the Highgate area and offered their thoughts to Melissa’s family and everyone impacted by the tragedy. Locals who witnessed the aftermath expressed sadness and concern for road safety, noting the incident occurred at a designated pedestrian crossing outside the school.

Authorities continue to gather evidence as the investigation proceeds, with a focus on identifying all factors that contributed to the collision. The case has drawn attention to pedestrian safety near school zones in the area.