Shock over girl’s death
A COMMUNITY has been left in shock after the death of a 12-year-old girl from Hamilton.
More than £2300 has been raised for the family of Rachel Stevens, who died at Wishaw General Hospital.
A FUNDRAISING page has been set up to help the family of a child from Hamilton who died suddenly.
Rachel Stevens, 12, was rushed to Wishaw General Hospital on Friday evening where she passed away a short time later.
Police are not treating the death as suspicious.
An online fundraising page has been set up to support the family of the John Ogilvie High School pupil.
More than £2300 has been raised by generous donors in less than 24 hours.
A post on the page reads: “A tragic loss of a beautiful young girl Rachel Stevens. Only 12 years old and her full life ahead of her.
“Her family are absolutely devastated and she has left a massive hole in their heart.
“This page has been se tup to help the family at this heartbreaking time.
“The family has no idea we have set this up but I feel as a community we have to help as much as we can.
“Any donation is welcome whether small or not. The family can’t begin to think about their loss but knowing that people are out there I am sure this would such a comfort.”
Nearly £2000 has been raised in less than 24 hours from kind locals.
Monica Lennon MSP took to social media to share her shock.
She wrote: “I’m devastated to learn of the death of a young constituent. My thoughts are with her family, friends and school. I’ve contacted South Lanarkshire Council regarding support for pupils.
“Samaritans Scotland are available round the clock on 116 123 for anyone needing to talk.”
Hundreds of people expressed their sadness as the news on social media.
Sheila Ross commented: “So sad. Another bright Angel star gone too soon xx.”
Elaine Stomboli added: “My god, 12 years old... horrific , thoughts go to this little girl’s family.”
A Police Scotland spokeswoman said: “At around 7pm on Friday 21 September police were called to a report that a 12 year old girl had taken unwell at a flat in Hamilton.
“She was taken by ambulance to Wishaw General Hospital, where she died a short time later.
“A post mortem will take place in due course to establish the exact cause of her death, which at this time police are not treating as suspicious.”