Heartbroken parents pay tribute to ‘precious’ daughter, 15, who died in Birmingham bus crash

THE parents of a girl who died after being struck by a bus have paid tribute to “a beautiful young girl with an amazing personality and presence to match”.

Sophie Jain Fletcher, 15, was struck by a National Express West Midlands bus in Birmingham on 18 March.

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Sophie Jain Fletcher died after she was hit by a National Express bus[/caption]

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Flowers were left at the scene after the 15-year-old’s tragic death[/caption]

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The teenager was rushed to hospital but died shortly after arriving[/caption]

Emergency services were called to the scene on Sheaf Lane but despite their best efforts, Sophie was pronounced dead in hospital shortly after.

West Midlands Police confirmed that the bus driver involved in the incident was helping with the police investigation.

In a poignant tribute, Sophie’s parents said: “It is with deep sorrow and a heavy heart that on Saturday 18th March 2023, our precious daughter Sophie Jain Fletcher was taken from us.

“She was a beautiful young girl with an amazing personality and presence to match.

“She will be so greatly missed by all her family, friends whether in or outside of school.

“Mommy will always hold your hand and you will always be daddy’s little princess.

“Fly high our beautiful Sophie Soph. We will love you, forever & always Mommy & Daddy xxxxxxxxxxxxxxx.”

Sophie was a student at the Euphoria Dance school in Solihull.

Teacher Catriona O’Brien fondly described her memories of the teenager.

She wrote: “Sophie was such a joy to teach, always so happy and eager to please, always tried her best and was just the most loving little person.

“RIP beautiful girl, we will never forget you.”

A JustGiving page set up to help the family with funeral costs has already raised nearly £6,800, accruing 98% of its £6,900 target.

Cops have appealed for any witnesses with dashcam footage to get in touch.

PC Gail Arnold, of WMP’s serious collision investigation unit, said: “A young girl has tragically died and we’ll be doing all we can to support her family during this deeply distressing time.

“We’re working to establish the circumstances behind the collision and we’re keen to hear from anyone who was in the area at the time, and especially anyone with dashcam footage.”