Our hearts are broken

Devastated family's tribute to Elianne, 15 | Mum weeps over senseless death of child

- TOM PETTIFOR and ANDY LINES

UNITED in grief and unbearable heartache, Elianne Andam's devastated family and friends last night gathered at the spot where her young life ended.

They paid tribute to the aspiring lawyer who was just 15 when stabbed to death in front of horrified schoolchildren and commuters on Wednesday.

Elianne's mum broke down in tears as she visited the scene with around 30 family members.

They said in a statement: "Our hearts are broken by the senseless death of our daughter. Elianne was the light of our lives.

"She was bright and funny, with many friends who all adored her. She was only 15, and had her whole life ahead of her, with hopes and dreams for the future. All those dreams have now been shattered.

 

"Our lives have fallen apart, along with that of our wider family.

"It is our request that you keep our cherished daughter Elianne and our family in your prayers.

'We would like to express our gratitude to those who have taken the time to send us thoughtful and compassionate messages."

Elianne's parents, who live only half a mile away, spent 15 minutes at the scene next to a bus stop inside the police cordon in Croydon, South London.

The tragic girl's aunt Marian said at her nearby home: "We can't comprehend the heartbreak. She went to school and didn't come home. This is a tragedy. It hasn't sunk in yet for my sister.

"Elianne wanted to be a lawyer. She went to a private school and had a great future ahead of her. She was a lovely girl, loved gymnastics. She loved doing her hair. We are all devastated by this."