Morningside crash: Headteacher at school where mum of boy killed works pays respects to family

‘As a strong school community we will do everything we can to support Mrs Irvine and her family in the difficult times ahead.’

A headteacher at a school where the mother of a toddler killed in a car crash works has paid tribute to the young boy and his family.

Victoria Irvine, 37, and her three-year-old son, Xander, were hit by a Kia Picanto after it crashed into them outside St Columba’s Hospice shop on Morningside Road in Edinburgh on Tuesday afternoon.

Both were rushed to hospital where the young boy died and Mrs Irvine, who works as a teacher at Oxgangs Primary School, was treated for her injuries.

Kevin Brack, interim head teacher at Oxgangs primary school pays respects to family of toddler who died in Morningside crash

The driver, a 91-year-old woman, suffered no injuries in the collision.

In a letter to parents, Kevin Brack, Oxgangs interim headteacher, said how “devastating” the news was. He announced the school would do everything it could to support Xander’s family, in particular staff member Mrs Irvine.

Mr Brack said: “It is with great sadness that I write to you today to share the tragic news that our own Mrs Victoria Irvine’s son Xander died on Tuesday 30 June after a collision with a car on Morningside Road.

“Xander was three years old.

“This is a truly devastating event and we are all utterly heartbroken for Xander and his family.

“As a strong school community we will do everything we can to support Mrs Irvine and her family in the difficult times ahead.

“Many people have left floral tributes at the scene on Morningside Road and this has brought great comfort to the family.

“I would ask that you hold Xander, Mrs Irvine and their family in your thoughts at this enormously sad time."

Residents and family have since laid flowers and soft toys near to the place where Xander and his mother were hit.

Officers have also been seen paying their respects at the spot where the fatal crash happened.

Inspector Roger Park, of Edinburgh City Road Policing Unit, said: “Our thoughts remain with the family of Xander at this incredibly difficult time.

“Enquiries into the crash are ongoing. A full forensic collision investigation was carried out at the time and officers continue to look at CCTV and dash-cam footage as well as tracing and speaking to witnesses who have come forward.

“The 37-year-old pedestrian, Xander’s mother, also injured in the incident has now been discharged from hospital following treatment.

“I can also confirm that the driver of the Red Kia, a 91-year-old woman, was uninjured.

“I wish to express my sincere thanks to the members of the public who intervened and assisted in the immediate aftermath of this tragic incident and to the police and other emergency services who were on the scene.