School pays tribute to "popular" student Ryan Durkin killed in Brinsworth hit and run

A SCHOOL leader said staff were "shocked and saddened" after a 15-year-old pupil who was the victim of a hit and run died in hospital a week after being struck by a stolen vehicle.

Brinsworth Academy described Ryan Durkin as "a quiet, popular student with a fun sense of humour" who had a bright future ahead of him.

Ryan was left in a critical condition in Sheffield Childrens' Hospital after he was hit by a stolen silver BMW at high speed in Brinsworth Lane at 11pm on Good Friday.

The BMW passed the junction with Poplar Drive, heading towards Brinsworth Road, and then collided with Ryan as he walked along the road. A black Seat Ibiza, also travelling along Brinsworth Lane, then struck him as he lay in the road.

He died on Saturday and a fundraising page set up in support of his family has so far raised £5,194.

Andy Riches, chief executive of Brinsworth Academy's LEAP Multi-Academy Trust, said: "We are all deeply shocked and saddened by the tragic death of Ryan.

"News of this tragedy has been felt across the academy and the whole Brinsworth community. The loss will be felt for a considerable time.

"Ryan was a quiet, popular student with a fun sense of humour.

"He had great potential and a bright future ahead of him, particularly in sport, where he was a crucial member of the school football team.

"He will be remembered by staff as a polite, well-mannered student with a wonderful smile.

"Ryan was part of a very close knit group of loyal friends, who always look out for each other.

"We will continue to provide support to those needing it, in the coming weeks, as they deal with the loss of their friend.

"Our thoughts and condolences go out to Ryan's family and friends at this time."

Ryan's former football club, Brinsworth Whitehill JFC, said they were deeply saddened to hear of his passing.

Ryan more recently played for Phoenix Youth under-15s who had planned to hold a fundraising tournament at the weekend in support of his family.

Mitchell Hughes (24), of Lapwater Road, Wingfield, appeared at Sheffield Magistrates' Court last Monday charged with causing a serious injury through dangerous driving and failing to stop after a road traffic collision in connection with the incident.

Hughes has also been charged with aggravated burglary, possession of an offensive weapon and section 18 wounding, alleged to have taken place on Friday, April 12, when the BMW was stolen from a house in Penistone.

He entered no pleas to the charges and was remanded in custody to appear at Sheffield Crown Court on May 20.

A 17-year-old man who was driving the Seat Ibiza was released under investigation. 

Police remain keen to hear from anyone who has information about what happened, dashcam footage, or who saw either of the vehicles in the area prior to the collision.