Othniel Adoma had “electric pace, dazzling footwork,” his team, Crowthorne FC Juniors, said in a statement following the child’s death of injuries suffered in a car crash
A football club has paid tribute to an 11-year-old boy who died in a minibus crash on the M4.
Othniel Adoma “always had a smile on his face,” his side, Crowthorne FC Juniors, said following the tragedy. The youngster died on Thursday, more than three weeks after the single-vehicle crash on the motorway near Reading, Berkshire. A six-year-old boy, who has not been named, also died in the collision.
Othniel was a talented footballer, who Bracknell-based team Crowthorne FC Juniors said possessed “electric pace, dazzling footwork”. The club, which is set to hold a vigil on Friday evening, said in a statement: “Everyone at Crowthorne FC is devastated by the tragic passing of one of our own, Othniel Adoma, who sadly lost his life this week. Othniel was a talented young footballer, full of promise, who spent three wonderful years with our club. He was loved deeply by his coaches, his teammates, and everyone whose life he touched.
“He will be remembered not only for his electric pace, dazzling footwork, and the goals and assists he delivered week after week — but more importantly, for the incredible person he was. Othniel always had a smile on his face and brought joy and laughter to those around him.”
READ MORE: Sheffield crash: Boy, 16, dies in ‘hit-and-run smash’ involving Audi and electric bike
“Our thoughts and deepest sympathies are with his family during this unimaginably difficult time. We are here to support them in any way we can, while also respecting their need for privacy as they grieve,” the tribute added.
“Our hearts remain with Othniel’s family, and we encourage the community to come together and show just how loved and special their little boy truly was. Let’s stand united — in love, in remembrance, and in honour of a beautiful young soul who will forever be in our hearts.”
A fundraiser has already raised more than £7,000 towards a memorial for the youngster, who was from Bracknell, Berkshire. The vigil will be held at Birch Hill Recreation Ground in the town this week.
Thames Valley Police continues to investigate the crash and confirmed no arrests have been made. A white Ford Transit minibus overturned on the link road at junction 10 of the eastbound M4 for the A329(M) near Reading on May 11. Five other children who were injured in the collision have now been discharged from hospital.
Speaking previously, investigating officer Detective Sergeant Lyndsey Blackaby, of the serious collision investigation unit at Thames Valley Police, said: “My thoughts, and the thoughts of everyone at Thames Valley Police, are with the family and friends of Othniel Adoma. Othniel’s family has released these beautiful pictures of Othniel in his memory. Othniel’s family has asked that their privacy be respected at this difficult time.”