Islington moped crash victim’s family “in bits” over his death
Michael McGuiness has been remembered by friends as "a really nice guy" - Credit: Archant
The family of an Islington teenager killed after a car ploughed into his moped in the early hours of this morning are “in bits” over his death.
Michael McGuiness enjoyed spending time with his firends - Credit: Archant
Michael McGuiness, 18, died at the scene on Downham Road after a blue VW Golf collided with his bike on the junction with Southgate Road at about 1.20am
Flowers alongside tributes were left at the crash scene by friends - Credit: Archant
Scores of friends from the estate where he lived near Essex Road visited the scene this morning to lay flowers for the tragic teen, who said his mother and sister have been left devastated.
Long-term friend Charlie Snow, who laid his own floral tribute at the scene, said: “He was just a really nice guy. He wouldn’t have hurt a fly.
“He was like a brother to me. He was really close to us all, he was just that kind of person. Everyone knew him.
“We just still can’t believe it. His family, his sister and his mum, are in bits. Everyone is.”
Friend Alfie Warry added: “I got woken up by my brother this morning to let me know Scottish (Michael) had died.
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“I just didn’t want to believe it. I spoke to him only yesterday and he was just happy as normal. He was always a happy guy, always smiling.”
Michael was pronounced dead at the scene at about 2am after paramedics tried to revive him. A second moped rider, who was also in collision with the car, fled the scene with police still trying to track them down.
The male driver of the VW has been arrested on suspicion of causing death by dangerous driving and remains in custody.
Tyre marks could be seen stretching about 10 metres across the road at the scene this morning in an apparent attempt to make an emergency stop.
Several heartfelt messages were left with flowers at the scene. One read: “Can’t believe it, still hasn’t sunk in. Was only with you a few days ago. I’m absolutely gutted.
“Had a lot of good memories with you that I’ll never forget.”
Another read: “Gonna miss you Mike and all our little jokes I told you. RIP. Gone but never forgotten.”
Further messages paid tribute to a “humble guy” who will be “forever in our hearts”.
Police are now calling for witnesses to the tragedy. Call 020 8597 4874 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.
