A family has been left devastated following the death of 17-year-old Star Tomkins, described as having a “heart of gold,” after a horrific crash involving a bus and a car near Heathrow Airport. The tragic incident in west London claimed the lives of three teenagers and left several others injured.
Emergency services were called to Bedfont Road, Feltham, shortly before midnight on Monday. Upon arrival, officers discovered a Mercedes and a bus both engulfed in flames. Star Tomkins and two male teenagers inside the car were pronounced dead at the scene. A fourth male teen was rushed to the hospital.
Tributes soon poured in from heartbroken friends and relatives. A GoFundMe campaign launched to support funeral costs quickly raised over £7,000.
Organiser Zoe Lewis wrote, “It is with very heavy hearts that we share the unexpected passing of Star Tomkins. She was beloved daughter, sister, granddaughter, niece and best friend. She had a heart of gold and be deeply missed by many.”
Others joined in remembering Star. Sam Bennetts posted: “Three young adults whose lives were taken too soon. My heart breaks for you at this sad and difficult time. Sending love and healing your way.”
Kayleigh Louise also shared: “One of the nicest young girls I’ve ever met. Gonna miss our chats. Rest in paradise.”
Scene of Devastation and Emergency Response
The accident occurred on a stretch of Bedfont Road near HMP Feltham, between Chertsey Road and the Clockhouse Roundabout. Local residents reported the road being fully closed into the following day.
A mechanic working nearby said, “I couldn’t get to work this morning at around 10am. They have completely closed the road. The police said it was a really bad accident.”
Fire crews from Feltham and Heston stations responded quickly, with the fire extinguished by 1.41am. Assistant Commissioner of the London Fire Brigade, Paul McCourt, said: “The thoughts of everyone within the Brigade are with the families impacted by this tragic incident.
I’d like to thank our crews and emergency service colleagues for the determination and dedication they showed when responding to this difficult situation. The Brigade will speak with our firefighters that attended and offer support through our counselling and trauma services where required.”
The London Ambulance Service sent multiple units to the scene, including advanced paramedics, incident response officers, HART teams and London’s Air Ambulance.
A spokesperson stated: “We were called at 11.55pm yesterday (March 31) to reports of a road traffic collision on Bedfont Road, Feltham. Our crews treated six people. Sadly, three people were declared dead at the scene. We took the other three patients to hospital.”
Two passengers on the H26 bus to Hatton Cross sustained injuries but are not believed to be in a life-threatening condition. Others were treated at the scene by paramedics.
Investigation Continues as Community Seeks Answers
Claire Mann, Chief Operating Officer at Transport for London, also extended condolences: “Our thoughts are with the family and friends of the people who were tragically killed yesterday in a collision involving a bus and a car. This is a devastating incident and we have support available for those affected. Safety is our top priority and we are working urgently with the police on their investigation.”
The Metropolitan Police have appealed to the public for information and urged anyone who may be able to assist to contact 101, quoting CAD 8411.
