Freddie Coleman: Parents pay tribute after teen dies in Stock crash

The parents of a boy who died in a "tragic" crash near his school have paid tribute to their "beautiful boy".

Freddie Coleman, 15, sustained fatal injuries during the incident in Stock, Essex, at about 08:20 GMT on 3 November.

In a statement, his parents Jason and Jo said he was "loved by everyone".

A man who was arrested at the scene of the crash in Stock Road, on suspicion of causing death by dangerous driving, has been released under investigation.

The 23-year-old was also arrested on suspicion of causing serious injury by dangerous driving and driving whilst unfit through drink or drugs after a second teenage boy was taken to hospital as a result of the incident.

Freddie's parents said their son was a "kind happy funny boy" and "a much-loved son, grandson, brother, nephew and uncle".

They also appealed for their privacy to be respected "during this dreadful time".

Police are continuing to appeal for witnesses to the collision.

In a separate statement, Mr Damian Lee, headteacher at Mayflower High School, said: "All the staff, parents, governors and students from Mayflower High School are shocked and immensely saddened to hear of the tragic death of our Year 11 student, Freddie Coleman.

"He will be greatly missed by all. We wish to extend our thoughts and condolences to all of his family and friends at this saddest of times.

"We all thought the world of him, he was a much loved and respected member of our school community. He had a wide circle of friends in his year group and across the whole school, all of whom will miss him greatly."

Mr Lee added that the school was supporting students and staff with coming "to terms with this sad loss".

Follow East of England news on Facebook, Instagram and X. Got a story? Email [email protected] or WhatsApp 0800 169 1830