A five-year-old girl who tragically died after being struck by a ute outside her school has been remembered as “beautiful, happy and innocent”.
Islah Metcalfe was riding her scooter on the footpath outside Rouse Hill Public School on Clower Ave in Rouse Hill, Western Sydney, when she was struck at around 3.45pm on Thursday.
Paramedics treated her at the scene before transporting her to Westmead Children’s Hospital in a critical condition, where she later died.
According to a GoFundMe page established to support her mother, it was meant to be a “normal afternoon after-school pick-up”, and Islah had been “excited to get home” before the “unimaginable” occurred.
“Our family is completely shattered,” family friend Jessica Rose wrote.
“There are no words to describe the pain of losing such a beautiful, happy, and innocent little girl.
“She was cheeky and full of life, always smiling, always laughing, and brought so much light to everyone who knew her, we will never get to see her grow up and see the woman she would become.”
Rose added that Islah’s mother, a single parent, is “absolutely heartbroken”.
“No parent should ever have to plan their child’s funeral,” the post read.
“She’s struggling to cope not only with the grief but also with the overwhelming costs that come with this tragedy.”
The fundraiser has raised more than $80,000 to support the family.
One-To-One Tutor, where Islah had been a student, posted their own tribute.
“Islah was a bright, kind, and beautiful soul who brought so much light into our centre,” the organisation shared on social media.
“Rest in peace, Islah. You will always be remembered.”
Students and community members gathered outside the school on Friday, leaving flowers and tokens of condolence in her memory.
Attorney-General Michelle Rowland expressed her sorrow in a message online, describing the incident as a “tragic loss”.
“I am deeply saddened to hear of the tragic loss of a young girl after she was struck by a vehicle outside Rouse Hill Public School yesterday afternoon,” she said.
“My thoughts are with her family during this heartbreaking time.
“There are many young families in our community, and no doubt this news will be a shock to many.
“May she rest in peace.”
NSW Opposition Leader Mark Speakman, Sarah Mitchell and Ray Williams issued a joint statement acknowledging the profound impact on the community.
“Our hearts ache for the family and friends of the little girl who lost her life outside Rouse Hill Public School,” the statement reads.
“We are thinking of her loved ones, her classmates and the teachers and parents who are mourning today.
“This tragedy will shake the community to its core … Our deepest thanks go to the paramedics, police and hospital staff who acted with courage and compassion in the most heartbreaking circumstances.
“We also want to thank the Department of Education staff who are supporting the school community through this difficult time.”
Police confirmed that the 42-year-old driver of the Toyota Hilux was taken to Blacktown Hospital for mandatory testing.
Both the scooter and the ute have been seized for forensic examination, and a crime scene has been established as investigations continue.
Authorities have urged anyone with dashcam footage or information to contact Crime Stoppers.
Images: 7NEWS
