Popular teenage footballer mowed down while collecting his ball from road

A schoolboy was killed in a ‘hit and run’ as he went to collect his football from the road, an inquest has heard.

Taylen Ireton, 13, was playing football near the Cherry Tree pub in Colchester, Essex, when he was struck by a car on September 21.

He was taken to hospital but doctors could not do anything to save his life.

An inquest heard that Taylen’s cause of death was abdominal injuries pending, further investigation.

Coroner Michelle Brown said: ‘Taylen was playing football when he went into the road. As he went to retrieve it [the ball] he was hit by a vehicle.’

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The full inquest was adjourned pending the results of a criminal investigation.

Two 19-year-olds have been arrested on suspicion of causing death by dangerous driving and failing to stop at the scene of a collision.

An 18-year-old was also arrested on suspicion of failing to stop at the scene of a collision.

All three men were granted bail until December 4.

Tributes poured in for Taylen, who played for Wivenhoe Town FC’s Under 14s team.

The club said: ‘[We] are incredibly sad to hear that Taylen who plays for our Under 14s was involved in a RTC last night and sadly passed away.

‘Everyone at the club sends their condolences to the family and friends at this very difficult time.’

Ipswich Town also held a minute’s applause in honour of the teenage footballer during their clash with Aston Villa.

Headteacher of Thomas Lord Audley School, Simon Essex, said the ‘popular’ Year 9 student was ‘loud, funny and full of life’.

He added: ‘Taylen was a remarkable young boy, full of energy, kindness and had an infectious laugh.’

‘He had a way of making even the simplest moments feel memorable and he wore his heart on his sleeve. We will miss the cheeky grin that he always wore.’

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‘His popularity was a testament to the kind of person he was – warm, generous and always ready to stand by his friends. Though his time with us was far too short, the impact he made on our lives is immeasurable.’

‘He will forever be remembered not just for his big personality but for the kindness and love he shared with those lucky enough to be in his life.’

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‘Our world feels emptier without him, but his spirit will continue to live on in our hearts, memories, and the stories we will share for years to come.’

Officers continue to appeal for information.

Get in touch with our news team by emailing us at webnews@metro.co.uk.

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Popular teenage footballer mowed down while collecting his ball from road

Popular teenage footballer mowed down while collecting his ball from road

Popular teenage footballer mowed down while collecting his ball from road

Popular teenage footballer mowed down while collecting his ball from road

Popular teenage footballer mowed down while collecting his ball from road