Investigations continue girl's tragic e-scooter death (2025)

Inquiries are continuing into how a schoolgirl lost control of her e-scooter and was tragically killed during the Easter long weekend.

Initial reports suggested Summah Richards, 12, was walking her scooter along a road in Laidley, west of Brisbanebefore she was struck by a car about 3pm on Saturday.

Investigations have since indicated she was riding the scooter when she fell into the path of a Holden Barina travelling in the same direction.

Summah died at the scene, despite the efforts of emergency responders to revive her.

The driver and passenger in the hatchback were uninjured.

An investigation into the tragedy is still in its early stages. No charges have been laid.

'To lose a young person like that to a fatal traffic crash is really tragic and my heart goes out to the family and the friends of that young person who has been taken away from the family much too early,'Road Policing and Regional Support Command Acting Chief Superintendent Garrath Channells told the ABC.

'It would appear that the child has lost control of the e-scooter … [resulting] in the individual falling off the scooter and coming to the ground in front of a moving vehicle, which has collided with the child.

'Our specialist investigative unit from the forensic crash unit will work through the full investigation, but at this early date that is what appears to have occurred.'

Summah's death has rocked the local community who have rallied behind her devastated parents and brothers whose lives have been ripped apart.

It's understood the family moved to Laidley from the Moreton Bay region last year.

Summah, who had just started high school, has been remembered as a remarkable young girl with a vibrant spirit and wild sense of humour.

'Summah was out in the world living her best life doing what children do,' her mum's best friend Stacey Ardrey wrote on a on GoFundMe.

'Summah was the kind of soul who could light up any room simply by being in it. Her playful nature was contagious, always ready to laugh, and bring joy to those around her.

'Whether she was popping up from behind a corner which she did often and with a mischievous grin or throwing herself into an adventure with pure excitement, Summah’s bright energy was boundless.

'Her love wasn’t just seen, it was felt. With her big brown eyes, full of wonder and kindness, she made everyone feel special.'

Summah always looked out for others and had a tenderness beyond her years.

She had dreams of becoming anurse practitioner when she grew up.

'Summah’s ability to show love so freely and authentically left a lasting impact on all who were lucky enough to know her,' Ms Ardrey continued.

'Her infectious smile and the warmth of her spirit will forever be remembered.'

The community has raised nearly $15,000 towards Summah's funeral.

A growing memorial of flowers, toys and tributes remains near the crash scene.

One note, left by a friend, accompanied flowers and a packet of Summah's favourite chewing gum read: 'in memory of you, missed 4ever by all your friends and family'.

Investigations into the fatal collision continue.

Anyone with information, CCTV or dash cam or urged to call Crime Stoppers.

Brisbane

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