A London school has paid tribute to a “kind and popular” pupil who tragically died after he was struck by a train whilst on his way to school. Year 7 student Jaiden Shehata was involved in the fatal incident at a crossing near Kenley Station last Thursday at around 8am. He was making his way to Riddlesdown Collegiate school in south Croydon, which closed for a day of mourning the following day. The secondary school, off Honister Heights, posted a moving tribute to the school's website, which described Jaiden as a kind and popular pupil, and a valued member of the school’s community. It reads: “We are deeply saddened by the loss of Jaiden Shehata, one of our students, who died on Thursday, January 23. Our thoughts are with his family and friends at this difficult time.
"Jaiden was a kind and popular student and a valued member of Riddlesdown Collegiate. We know the loss is being felt by many and we are doing everything we can to support his friends, family and the wider student and staff community at this difficult time.”. Principal Daniel Osborne also wrote to parents and guardians informing them of the “tragic accident”, which was investigated by British Transport Police (BTP) and ruled as "non-suspicious". A BTP spokesperson said: "This incident has now been investigated and ruled as non-suspicious, officers remain working with partner agencies to support the family at this time.”.
In his letter seen by MyLondon, Mr Osborne described his "immense sadness" at Jaiden's death and said the school has plans to involve students and staff in "commemorating" Jaiden. He wrote: “This tragedy will undoubtedly affect all of us. Please be assured that we will do our best to support everyone and move forward together as a community.”. On the morning of the incident, A BTP force spokesperson said: "Officers were called to the line near Kenley railway station at around 8am this morning (January 23) following reports of a casualty on the tracks. Paramedics also attended, however sadly a person was pronounced dead at the scene. Enquiries into the circumstances leading up to their death are ongoing.”.
