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By Steve Salter
Hundreds of people have released balloons in memory of a tragic teenager who died following a crash in Ashford.
Tyrese Quigley, 18, was riding his moped home last Monday when he was involved in a collision with a Honda Civic at the junction of Hythe Road and Hunter Road in Willesborough.
The former North School pupil suffered severe head injuries and his life support was switched off at King's College Hospital in London on Wednesday afternoon.
Just days after his death, Tyrese's mum Denise Goldsmith and two of his brothers – Lewis and Riley Goldsmith – organised the balloon release to remember the avid football fan.
Held at the playing field bordered by Godinton Road and Western Avenue, hundreds of balloons were sent into the skies over Ashford yesterday afternoon to mark his death.
They were let off at 2.38pm – the exact time Tyrese's life support was turned off on Wednesday.
After seeing his brother in hospital, Lewis said: "He hadn’t got a mark on him, it just looked like he was asleep.
"It is so heartbreaking, but knowing his organs will help others is heartening."
Tyrese, who used to play for Ashford football team Bromley Green in the youth league, was one of 18 siblings and has been described as a "family man who would do anything for love".
Riley added: "Last Monday for most was a day to look towards a brighter future with restrictions being lifted.
"Instead, that night we were preparing ourselves to say goodbye to our poor little brother.
"Tyrese will forever be in our hearts and we can't stop thinking of him – the past few days have been absolute torture.
"He will be deeply missed by every single one of us, but he will certainly never be forgotten. Rest in perfect peace, Ty."
Denise said she was overwhelmed by the love and support the family has received from those who knew her son and amazed how total strangers have rallied around to show their support and love since his death.
Tyrese's girlfriend, Chloe Harris, added: "He's going to keep other people alive so I am grateful for that, but at the same time it's horrible, especially at such a young age.
"He only just turned 18 last month and didn't even get to buy his first legal pint."
A GoFundMe page set up by friend Helen Stockman to support the family has already raised more than £4,800.
