Family pay tribute to Kilwinning schoolgirl Sophia Aitken

The family of 12-year-old Sophia Aitken, who tragically died after being struck by a bus in Kilwinning, have paid tribute to their daughter, describing her as their “ray of sunshine”.

Sophia was involved in a collision with a Stagecoach vehicle on Lauchlan Way at around 1.10pm on Tuesday 3 November, where she was pronounced dead at the scene.

In a statement released through Police Scotland, her family said they were devastated by the loss but had taken comfort from the kind messages shared across the community and asked for privacy as they grieve.

North Ayrshire Council has also paid tribute to Sophia, describing her as a popular member of the school community who was known for her bright smile and vibrant personality.

Police enquiries are continuing. Anyone with information or dashcam footage is asked to contact Police Scotland on 101, quoting incident number 1484 of 3 November2026.