Tributes have been paid to a “beautiful and talented” young boy who died after his e-scooter collided with a BMW.

The family of 15-year-old Kieran Byrne say they have been through the “most horrific 48 hours” after the Cornwallis Academy pupil died in Heath Road, Coxheath on Saturday night.

Police closed the road for more than 10 hours after the incident as people watched on in horror as officers investigated the scene.

Speaking to KentOnline, Kieran’s family detailed their devastating heartbreak.

His sister-in-law Rachel said: “On Saturday my beautiful, talented, hilariously sarcastic, clever, highly intelligent and funny brother-in-law passed away in an unfortunate road traffic accident.

“We have had the most horrific 48 hours, that no family should ever have to deal with.

“Whatever your opinions are on what happened and who was wrong in this tragedy I ask you kindly to remember that at the weekend my mother in-law lost her baby boy, as did his father, my husband lost his baby brother, my brother in-law lost his little brother and best friend, my step children lost their uncle and best friend.

“We as a family unite and are strong and will stick together while we deal with this tragic turn of events.”

Rachel has thanked everyone who left flower at the scene, adding: “You do not understand how it has helped us.”

One message on a bunch of flowers said: “Rest in Peace Kieran.

“You'll always be in our hearts. You gave everyone so many amazing memories and they won't be forgotten, neither will you.”

While another added: “I love you mate and I'm so sorry you had to go like this, you won't be forgotten and will be missed by all of us.

“I can't believe you're gone, things won't be the same without you and I really wish you was here. I miss you so much bro I don't know how I'm gonna cope with you being gone.”

A third wrote: “Sleep well little brother, you've left an irreplaceable void. I'll see you when I get there wherever you are. Love your big brother Gav.”

One man who was at the scene on Saturday night was reporter Ben Austin who offered those waiting cups of tea and deck chairs to sit on.

He said: "I came home from an evening at my local cricket ground and was dropped off by my brother at around 10.30pm but he wasn't able to take me all the way because of the cordon.

"People were in huddles whispering to one another about what happened. One group seemed to be comforting a young girl in distress.

"I decided I couldn't just sit and wait and wanted to help in whatever way I could so I began offering people cups of tea, I know it wasn't much but some people accepted and appreciated the gesture."

Cornwallis head of school Samantha McMahon said: “Our whole school community is deeply saddened by Kieran’s tragic death.

“This is a devastating loss for his family and friends. Kieran was such a popular member of the community and we will all miss him dearly.

“Our thoughts are with the family at this difficult time, and we send them our sincere condolences.”

Maidstone and the Weald MP Helen Grant added: “This is an absolutely tragic situation, and my heart goes out to young Kieran’s family and friends at this desperately sad time.

“I have also written to the family to offer any support I can. I have been in touch with Kent Police and await a full report on the circumstances.

“I know that officers are appealing to anyone who saw the collision, or who saw either vehicle that was involved before the incident, to call the SCIU appeal line on 01622 798 538 or email sciu.td@kent.pnn.police.uk quoting HW/HM/070/23.”