A woman who was killed when a van was driven on to a pavement in Aldwych, central London, has been named as Aalia Mahomed, a physics and philosophy student.
The 20-year-old was pronounced dead at the scene near King’s College London (KCL) at about midday on Tuesday morning.
In a statement issued through the Metropolitan police, her family described her as a “bright, kind and beautiful soul”. KCL confirmed that Mahomed was one of its second-year students.
The statement from Mahomed’s family said: “Aalia was a bright, kind and beautiful soul, who brought joy and laughter to everyone. She was a ray of sunshine in our lives, and will be deeply missed by all her family and friends.
“Her light will always live on in our memories and her smile will be our strength as we get through this difficult time.”
Prof Shitij Kapur, KCL’s vice-chancellor and president, said: “A senseless tragedy struck our campus on Tuesday – a tragedy that has led to the loss of life of one of our students, Aalia Mahomed. Aalia was in her second year of study for her BSc in physics and philosophy. Our thoughts are with her family, friends and loved ones during this incredibly difficult time, and we offer them our deepest condolences.
“Words often bring little comfort at these difficult times when what has happened cannot be reversed – but I hope that in supporting our students and staff, and honouring and remembering what has been lost, we will find a way forward.”
Another KCL student, aged 27, who was injured, remains in hospital in a serious condition. Her injuries are not believed to be life-threatening. A 23-year-old man was taken to hospital and has since been discharged.
Kapur said: “Another of our students is still in hospital and is in our thoughts. We are in touch with their family to ensure they feel supported.
“We cannot at this time share details of the accident as it remains a matter of active investigation by the police and we are in contact with the relevant authorities.”
The driver of a dark grey Ford Transit van was arrested on suspicion of causing death by careless driving. The 26-year-old was arrested again while in custody on suspicion of drug driving offences. He has been bailed as the police continue their investigations.
Ch Supt Thomas Naughton, of the Met’s roads and transport policing command, said it was a “complex investigation”.
“Our team is continuing to establish the facts around this extremely upsetting incident. The investigation remains in the early stages and officers continue to gather CCTV and obtain witness statements from those at the scene,” he said.
Police said the incident was not being treated as terrorism-related.
Specialist liaison officers were supporting the family.
DCI Christina Jessah urged the public not to post false theories online about the incident.
“We are aware of inaccurate speculation online about this incident being terrorism-related,” she said. “We ask the public to refrain from this speculation to protect the integrity of the ongoing investigation and avoid causing further suffering to the family.”
