Family Pay Tribute To 17 Year Old
The family of a 17 year old boy killed in a road traffic collision in the early hours of New Year's Day have said he will live 'forever in our hearts, our prayers and dreams.'
Augustine Carnell, of Rochester, died when he was involved in a collision with a white Skoda Rapid at 3.30am on the Maidstone-bound carriageway of the A229 on Bluebell Hill.
It is believed the King's School A-level student was walking home.
His family has paid the following tribute to Augustine: "A kind, gentle, happy 17 year old boy full of fun and humour. He always made people feel welcome and at ease - a natural friend. He was a keen rugby player, both at King's and Aylesford Bulls. He was a CCF Air Cadet and Explorer Scout with Shorne Scout Troup.
"A qualified scuba diver, Augustine completed a coral conservation diving project in 2012. Augustine loved animals, our dogs, ducks, fish and his bearded dragon.
"Augustine died tragically on Bluebell Hill after leaving a New Year's Eve party; he was involved in a collision with a car and died instantly.
"His family love him so very much. He is with Jesus now, but he will be with us forever in our hearts, our prayers and dreams.
"Funeral arrangement details will be provided to his friends and family."
Augustine's school has also released a statement paying tribute to the 'charismatic' schoolboy.
The statement said: "Augustine Carnell was a pupil at King?s Rochester from the age of four years old and his death is a very great loss to every member of the school. His vivacious personality, his ready smile, his positive presence in class and his many contributions to school life are just some of his qualities that we will all miss.
"Augustine was an active member of the CCF, played rugby for the 1st XV and had completed his Bronze Duke of Edinburgh Award and Grade 5 on piano. In addition he had many interests outside school including scuba-diving and the Scouts. Last summer he took part in a coral reef conservation project in Florida where his commitment and humour made a great impression on his group.
"Augustine was a charismatic young man with a charming manner and a great sense of fun. His ability to relate to everyone he met, whether young or old, meant that he had a wide circle of friends and was liked and respected by all who had the privilege of knowing him.
"Augustine set a true example of how to live life to the full and will be deeply missed and fondly remembered. Our thoughts and prayers are very much with his family and friends."
Officers from the Kent Police Serious Collision Investigation Unit have launched an investigation into the collision. Nobody has been arrested.
They are appealing for witnesses to come forward. Anybody who saw the collision and has not yet spoken with police is asked to call PC Simon Masterson on 01622 798538.