R.I.P.

Charlotte Leatherbarrow Killed By Double Decker Bus

This is absolutely awful.

Charlotte Leatherbarrow, a 12-year-old dancer who was appearing in the Billy Elliot musical in London, was hit and killed upon impact by a double-decker bus while crossing the road near her home in South London on Thursday.

Charlotte’s family described her as a “fun loving, thoughtful, caring and bubbly girl” and said in a statement:

“She loved life and lived it to the full, already living her dream as a dancer...Each and every one of us will miss her enormously.”

And her dance captain at Billy Elliot, Alan Bradshaw, said on behalf of the entire cast and crew:

“Charlotte was the most adorable girl. She was lively and energetic, had a wonderful smile and was an absolute pleasure to work with.”

Authorities are currently investigating the bus in question, and still speaking with witnesses in an attempt to gather as much information as possible.

No parent should ever have to lose a child, especially one so young.

Our thoughts are with her family, friends, and loved ones during this truly tragic time. Stay strong.