Family tribute to ‘happy’ and ‘bubbly’ boy, 3, killed in crash
The family of a young boy who died after a horrific crash as he strolled on a city street with his mother have said they are “devastated” by the loss of their “happy, bubbly, intelligent little boy”.
Three-yearold Xander Irvine sustained fatal injuries when a car mounted the pavement as he walked with his teacher mother, Victoria, 37, on Morningside Road on Tuesday afternoon. The
vehicle struck them both before crashing into the front of the St Columba’s Hospice Charity shop.
Xander was taken to the city’s Sick Kids Hospital where he later died.
Mrs Irvine, a teacher at the city’s Oxgangs Primary School, was also hurt, but left hospital later. She paid an emotional visit to the crash scene on Wednesday to see cards, flowers and notes from well-wishers.
The 91-year-old woman at the wheel of the Kia Picanto was not injured, but is said to be deeply shocked by the accident.
In a statement released through Police Scotland yesterday, the Irvine family described Xander’s accident as “tragic”.
They continued: “Xander was a very happy, bubbly, intelligent little boy who was very dearly loved by his parents Victoria and Paul. Xander was a real chatterbox who just loved books, playing with all sorts of vehicles and his Lego. He really enjoyed life and he enriched the lives of everyone he met.
“Victoria and Paul are devastated and feel as if their hearts have been ripped out. Xander will be so very sorely missed by them both and all his family and friends.”
In a message to Oxgangs Primary parents and carers, interim head teacher Kevin Brack said Mrs Irvine had “bravely” requested that he inform them of Xander’s death.