Tributes to schoolboy killed on motorway

Tributes poured in today to a schoolboy who was knocked down and killed after wandering on to a motorway.

Police said Scott Turner was struck by a number of vehicles, including an unmarked police car, on the M23, near Crawley, East Sussex, early yesterday morning.

The 15-year-old, of South Way, Burgess Hill, had been at a family celebration shortly before the incident, where it was alleged he had a row with his father before walking off.

A message on Facebook written by Laura Ann Chaitow said: "Apparently he was at a wedding and he had an argument with his dad, so went on a walk."

More than 1,200 people have joined two groups on the social networking site which have been set up in tribute to the teenager.

On one of them, Jessica Lansdall wrote: "We are all going to miss you so much - you were much loved."

Another message, from Adam Bartholomew, read: "You had so much ahead of you, it is such a shame. You will be dearly, dearly missed my friend, love you lots."

The motorway was closed for more than eight hours as officers investigated the incident between junctions 10 and 10a shortly before 1.50am.

A Sussex Police spokeswoman said Scott was hit first by a black Nissan Note and then by several other vehicles including the police car and an ambulance.

The police watchdog was informed of the crash.

The police spokeswoman added: "As a matter of standard procedure the IPCC (Independent Police Complaints Commission) have been informed."

A post-mortem examination is not expected for the next few days and no arrests were made.

Chief Superintendent Paul Morrison said: "This is an extremely tragic event and our sympathy is with the family and friends of the young man.

"Family liaison officers are with them to offer support as they try to come to terms with their loss and will be working with the school to offer further support.

"The victim had been with relatives at a family function earlier in the evening and police are investigating to establish how he came to be walking on the motorway."

Police appealing for information urged witnesses to call 0845 6070 999, quoting Operation Harlington.

A statement released by Downlands Community School, where Scott was a pupil, said he "had a ready smile which endeared him to staff and pupils alike".

It said: "Scott had only been at Downlands a year but was very happy and settled, and was polite and courteous to staff.

"He very quickly made new friends and was a popular and well- liked pupil at the school.

"He was a very keen and accomplished sportsman and represented the school in both football and cricket.

"The school is in shock that such a tragic accident has taken his life and our thoughts and condolences are with his family and friends.

"He will be sadly missed by us all."