The first picture has been released of a 27-year-old woman who tragically died after her car collided with a stationary double-decker bus in East London.
Soriah Barry suffered fatal injuries in the horrific crash on Lea Bridge Road, Clapton early on Saturday, February 8.
Tributes to a ‘Beautiful Soul’
Soriah’s cousin, Jamilah Barry, described her as a “deeply beloved daughter, granddaughter, sister, and cousin”, adding:
“Soriah was fierce, loyal, and wow – so full of life. She touched so many hearts, and we want to honour her with the farewell she deserves.”
Jamilah has launched a GoFundMe page to help cover funeral costs, which has already raised nearly £5,000.
“Losing her so suddenly has been devastating,” she said. “I’ll never really have the words. One of my favourite people in the world is no longer here with us. I’m still waiting for you, Soriah.”
Devastating Crash & Witness Accounts
The crash occurred at around 6:50 AM when Soriah’s car ploughed into the bus, leaving it badly damaged.
Emergency services, including paramedics and firefighters, worked tirelessly to save her life at the scene before she was rushed to hospital, where she tragically died a short time later.
Eyewitnesses described the horrific impact of the crash.
“There was a bang like an explosion. I looked out, and the car was crumpled. There was smoke and steam coming from the vehicles.”
Another witness recalled the desperate attempts to revive Soriah:
“Emergency workers tried so hard to save her life. The paramedics and firefighters took turns giving chest compressions. They did their best. My heart goes out to her family.”
The bus driver was reportedly left distraught and in shock, seen on his knees at the crash scene.
Investigation Underway
Detectives from the Serious Collision Investigation Unit are currently examining the circumstances surrounding the crash.
Lea Bridge Road was temporarily closed while officers carried out forensic investigations.
Appeal for Witnesses
Police are urging anyone who witnessed the crash or has dashcam footage from the area to come forward.
? Call 101 or contact @MetCC on X (formerly Twitter) quoting CAD1388/8Feb.
This remains a developing story, and updates will follow as more information becomes available.
