Tyrese Quigley's funeral held as police continue to appeal for witnesses to Ashford crash
Published: 13:48, 19 May 2021
Updated: 16:38, 19 May 2021
By Steve Salter
Friends, family and neighbours lined the streets to bid farewell to a much-loved son, brother and friend following his death aged just 18.
Tyrese Quigley died from severe head injuries after a crash between his moped and a Honda Civic at the junction of Hythe Road and Hunter Road, Willesborough, just before 10pm on Monday, April 12.
He was taken by ambulance to King’s College Hospital in London, but efforts to save the former North School pupil were in vain.
His heart was restarted at the scene following CPR after 27 minutes which allowed his family to donate his organs, but stem cell tests sadly deemed the teenager had no chance of survival.
The avid football fan was officially pronounced dead following the tests on April 14.
A fitting send-off was arranged for Tyrese last Friday from his home in Norwood Gardens.
His coffin was carried from the house by his brothers and a family friend to a four-horse white carriage, draped with the flags and colours of his favourite team Manchester United.
Red flags lined the street as he left his home on his final journey to Charing Crematorium.
Devastated family followed the cortege in a stretched limousine including his mum Denise and father Bill, who had added a 'we'll meet again' message to the side of the coffin.
Tyrese had only recently joined the Army and he was on his way home from his girlfriend Chloe’s home when tragedy struck.
Following his death, it was agreed those in need of organ donation would benefit.
Denise said: “Up to 50 people, some of whom have been on the donor list for some time, will benefit from my son’s donation.
“A huge thank you to those who have supported the family at this difficult time, including those who have raised money to contribute to the funeral costs.”
Last month, scores of balloons were sent into the skies over Ashford to remember Tyrese.
Organised by Denise and two of his brothers – Lewis and Riley Goldsmith – the event on the playing field bordered by Godinton Road and Western Avenue was attended by hundreds of people.
Officers from the serious collision investigation unit are still appealing for witnesses to the Hythe Road incident.
If you can help, call 01622 798538 or email sciu.td@kent.pnn.police.uk quoting reference DB/SW/033/21.
Read more: All the latest news from Ashford
More by this author
Express reporter