A school has paid tribute to a high energy 12-year-old boy who died after he was allegedly “struck” by a car being driven by a teenager in Brentwood.
Shenfield High School described Bobby Bloomfield as a bright and energetic student who brought laughter, fun, and happiness to everyone around him.
He died after being hit by a vehicle on Ashwells Road in Pilgrims Hatch at 5.40pm on Sunday (June 7), and later died in hospital from his injuries.
In a statement, the school said: "Bobby was a student who brought so much fun and happiness to those around him.
"He was charismatic, full of energy and had a great sense of humour.
"He had a special gift of making people laugh, whether through a joke, a funny comment, or his infectious personality.
"Bobby’s positive energy was contagious.
"His ability to spread joy and happiness made him a much-loved member of year 8.
"Bobby was active, always on the go.
"He enjoyed playing football and loved to dance, with displays of Russian dancing and Michael Jackson moves amongst his repertoires."
The school also highlighted his natural talent for drama and physical education, as well as his artistic abilities.
The statement continued: "His high energy led him to be naturally talented in Drama and PE, and his artwork showed great attention to detail.
"He was always happy to volunteer to read aloud in his history lessons and to contribute different viewpoints and ideas in class discussion.
"The reflections of staff and students this week have been full of happy memories and funny anecdotes.
"For a child who was still so early in his secondary school life he had a significant and lasting impact on those who befriended him and who taught him.
"He will be remembered as a funny, exuberant young boy who loved nothing better than making others laugh, be those friends or teachers."
A 15-year-old boy, who cannot be named for legal reasons, and William Lunnon, 43, appeared at Chelmsford Magistrates’ Court on Thursday (June 11) charged with murder.
Prosecutor Rohini Majumdar told the court that the victim and his friends were on private property when Lunnon approached them and asked them to leave.
It is alleged that the boys “ran off” but were subsequently chased by the two defendants in a car, which was being driven by the teenager.
The vehicle “struck” Bobby, Ms Majumdar said, before the teenager exited it and “punched and kicked” the boy.
It is alleged that the pair then left Bobby at the side of the road.
Lunnon, was remanded in custody and the 15-year-old was remanded to a youth detention accommodation.
During the hearing, the teen wore a quarter-zip jumper and jeans, and spoke to confirm his date of birth and that he understood the matter could only be dealt with at a Crown court.
Wearing a grey prison tracksuit, Lunnon spoke to confirm his age, date of birth and address.
The pair will appear at Chelmsford Crown Court on Friday for a preliminary hearing.
In a statement released through Essex Police earlier this week, Bobby’s family said: “Losing a child is every parent’s nightmare.
“We are living that nightmare and no words can ever explain how we are feeling
“Bobby brought light and life into all our lives and we have lost that forever.”
The force previously said that two men, aged 65 and 54, and two women, aged 65 and 45, were arrested and held in custody on suspicion of perverting the course of justice in relation to the incident.
Essex stand-up comedian Josh James, reportedly family to Bobby, has shared a tribute online saying that: “We will miss and love you always Bobby”.
In response, many shared heartfelt comments of how they feel following his death.
One person said: “On behalf of my daughter who had the privilege to spend everyday in classes with Bobby we would like to say what an impact he has had on the school community.
“They miss him so much and she said it’s not just the same without him in class.
“I think you never have to be a close friend for someone to impact your life.
“He was cheeky and funny and always brightened up the classroom.
“RIP Bobby and we know as a parent no amount of justice will comfort the loss of a child.”
Another person said: “Bobby was so loved by everyone who knew him.”
Share