Three-year-old killed by car which smashed into shop named

The parents of a three-year-old boy who died after being hit by a car said they are “devastated and feel as if their hearts have been ripped out”.

Xander Irvine suffered fatal injuries after a car mounted a pavement and careered into a shop in Edinburgh’s Morningside Road at around 2.30pm on Tuesday.

The toddler’s 37-year-old mother, Victoria, was also injured in the crash, but has since been released from hospital.

The driver of the red Kia, a 91-year-old woman, was uninjured.

Edinburgh: Members of the public placed flowers and teddies at the scene.

In a statement released through Police Scotland, Xander’s family said: “Xander Paul Thomas Irvine, three-years old, was out for a walk in Morningside with his mother on Tuesday afternoon when a tragic accident occurred.

“Xander was a very happy, bubbly, intelligent little boy who was very dearly loved by his parents Victoria and Paul.

“Xander was a real chatterbox who just loved books, playing with all sorts of vehicles and his Lego.

“He really enjoyed life and he enriched the lives of everyone he met.

“Victoria and Paul are devastated and feel as if their hearts have been ripped out.

“Xander will be so very sorely missed by them both and all his family and friends in Scotland and Northern Ireland.

“His parents would like to thank the paramedics, police, the fire and rescue service and members of the public for their help at the scene of the accident.

“Also, thank you to all the hospital staff and the police liaison for their help and to the public for their support to both Victoria and Paul and their families.

“What will we do without you Xander?”

Condolences: Members of the public have paid tribute.

Enquiries into the crash are ongoing.

Inspector Roger Park, of Edinburgh City Road Policing Unit, said: “Our thoughts remain with the family of Xander at this incredibly difficult time.

“Enquiries into the crash are ongoing, a full forensic collision investigation was carried out at the time and officers continue to look at CCTV and dashcam footage as well as tracing and speaking to witnesses who have come forward.

“I wish to express my sincere thanks to the members of the public who intervened and assisted in the immediate aftermath of this tragic incident and to the police and other emergency services who were on the scene.

“Finally, I would like to reiterate my request to respect the privacy of all those involved and allow them to, in some way, come to terms with what has happened.”