Preston Flores: Family 'ripped apart' after Aberdeen boy found 'on fire' in the street dies in hospital

A seven-year old child has died in hospital after suffering extremely serious burns following an incident which allegedly involved petrol, police said.

Preston Flores was taken to Royal Aberdeen Children's Hospital on Friday suffering serious burns all over his body. He was then transferred to the intensive therapy unit at the Royal Hospital for Sick Children in Edinburgh.

In a statement released through police on behalf of his family, his mother, Louisza, confirmed her "little boy" had passed away earlier today.

She said: "He meant the world to his family and will always be deeply missed and loved. Preston was a special little boy and his loss has ripped our family apart."

She added: "On behalf of our family I would like to thank everyone for their support but would ask that we are now allowed to grieve in peace for Preston."

Police said the incident may have involved petrol, but there is no evidence so far of any deliberate act and a report will be sent to the Procurator Fiscal in due course.

Detective Inspector Lorna Ferguson said: "Our thoughts are with Preston's family, friends and the Bedford community at this sad time."

Eyewitnesses said the boy was found "on fire" by neighbours in Bedford Avenue in Aberdeen at about 2pm on Friday.

The investigation continues.