Huge crowds expected at tribute to Kirkcaldy death crash teenager

Candle vigil planned on Promenade to celebrate the life of 17-year-old Ethan

More than 1,000 people are expected to descend on Kirkcaldy Promenade tonight to celebrate the life of a local teenager killed in a car crash last weekend.

Ethan King, 17, died as a result of the crash on the Standing Stane Road on the outskirts of Kirkcaldy on Sunday morning which also left two of his close friends fighting for their lives.

With the community still reeling from the tragedy, Ethan’s friends and family will be among those attending a specially arranged memorial from 6pm where visitors are expected to light candles and place them along the sea wall in his honour.

Ethan was a front seat passenger in the black Vauxhall Corsa when it crashed at around 8.40am last Sunday. He was pronounced dead at the scene.

Two other teenagers, Connor Aird, 17, and Danny Stevens, 18, suffered serious injuries and are being treated at Edinburgh Royal Infirmary.

Connor’s condition is understood to remain critical, while Danny underwent major surgery earlier this week and is in a stable condition.

Almost £10,000 has been raised via a crowdfunding campaign set up to help pay for funeral costs, while hundreds of messages have been written in a book of condolence which has been opened at Kirkcaldy High School, where he was a pupil until last year.

KHS rector Derek Allan admitted it had been a “difficult week” for everyone in the school community who had been “overwhelmed” by the news when it filtered through on Sunday.

“Our thoughts are very much with the families and loved ones of the victims... and many of those are young people currently in our school,” he said.

“The kids have been magnificent. They have been understanding, kind, respectful and resilient.

“Sometimes events such as these can strengthen a community which already has many strengths.

“I am exceptionally grateful to the staff, especially those who offered counsel, comfort or a hug.”

Mr Allan added that anyone who wishes to leave a message in the condolence book would be made very welcome next week.

The Philp Hall on Links Street will be open between 6.15-8pm, with free tea and coffee available, for tonight’s memorial.

A minute’s silence will be held in Ethan’s memory at most local football games this weekend, as Ethan played for local amateur side Glenrothes Athletic, while a minute’s applause in the 17th minute of Saturday’s Fife Flyers ice hockey match – to represent Ethan’s shirt number – is also planned.

Police inquiries are ongoing after the 17-year-old driver of the car was arrested on suspicion of drink-driving. He was being treated for his injuries at Ninewells Hospital in Dundee.

The kids have been magnificent. They have been kind, respectful and resilient. DEREK ALLAN, KIRKCALDY HIGH SCHOOL RECTOR

Ethan, left, who died in the crash, with friend Connor Aird who is still fighting for his life.