Bus driver arrested after seven-year-old boy dies in crash

Primary school pays tribute to ‘lovely’ pupil following collision in Monmouth

The collision took place on the A466 Hereford Road about a mile from Osbaston Church in Wales School (Google)

A minibus driver has been arrested after a seven-year-old schoolboy died in a collision in south east Wales.

The primary school pupil, who has not been named, was hit while walking on the A466 Hereford Road in Monmouth on Monday afternoon.

He died at the scene about a mile from Osbaston Church in Wales School.

Headteacher Catherine Jones said the school was “hugely saddened by the loss of our pupil”.

She said in a statement: “This lovely little boy was a huge part of the school life, lively and always smiling.

“The whole school community is coming to terms with this tragic news and we are holding our memories of a very popular little boy, full of character and energy.

“He will be missed by all of his friends with whom he loved playing tag and football. His family are in our thoughts and prayers at this time. He will be deeply missed by all.”

Gwent Police said a 45-year-old man from Gloucester had been arrested on suspicion of causing death by careless driving.

“Emergency services were called at around 3.40pm yesterday to reports of a road traffic collision between a minibus and a pedestrian on Hereford Road, A466, Monmouth,” the force said in a statement.

“The pedestrian, a seven-year-old boy, sadly died at the scene. His family are being supported by specially-trained officers.

“The driver of the minibus, a 45-year-old man from Gloucester, has been arrested on suspicion of causing death by careless driving. He remains in police custody at this time.

“Officers are investigating the circumstances surrounding the incident and are appealing for anyone who may have witnessed the collision or if anyone has dash cam footage from the area around the time of the collision to please contact us.”

Peter Fox, the leader of Monmouthshire County Council, said: “I would like to offer deep and sincere condolences to the family and friends of this little boy from everyone associated with Monmouthshire County Council.

“It is just not possible to put into words how sad we feel. We are here to help and will be supporting the school, children and colleagues over the coming days and for as long as is necessary.”

Paul Matthews, chief executive of Monmouthshire County Council, said: “This is just the very worst thing. The whole organisation has been rocked and finding words is so very hard.

“There will be much to do in the coming days and we will play our part to the best of our ability working closely with Gwent Police and other agencies.”

Additional reporting by Press Association