A 14-year-old pupil from St Columba’s High in Dunfermline has died during a school trip to London.
Crews from the London Ambulance Service were called to a Travelodge in King’s Cross Road shortly after 2am on Wednesday to treat the pupil, who was named locally as Lauren Murphy, from Dunfermline.
She was taken by ambulance to University College Hospital but was pronounced dead shortly after arrival.
An investigation is being carried out by officers from the Islington branch of the Metropolitan Police but the force has stated that there are not believed to be any suspicious circumstances.
It is understood Lauren had underlying health problems and it is believed she died from “diabetic shock.”
Fifty St Columba’s pupils had been on a modern studies trip to the capital.
Back in Fife, pupils many in tears gathered outside the school in the afternoon.
Councillor Douglas Chapman, the chairman of Fife Council’s education and children’s committee, spent Wednesday morning at St Columba’s and said the death had “really knocked the school.”
“I have been speaking to staff and pupils at the school this morning and it has been really difficult,” he said. “There is a really strong feeling of community at St Columba’s and given this strength, this should stand them in good stead.
“Our thoughts and condolences go to the family.”
It is understood Fife Council is making travel arrangements for the other pupils who were on the trip to London to return home.
Area education officer Donna Manson said, “I can confirm that one of our pupils has sadly passed away while on a school trip to London. Our priority at the moment is to make sure the rest of the school party can be returned home as soon as possible to be with their families.
“Extensive support is in place at the school for other pupils and staff. An education service representative has travelled to London to provide support to the school party and co-ordinate the pupils’ return.”
Councillor Joe Rosiejak, who is one of the representatives for the Dunfermline Central ward, described the death as “a tragedy.”
“This is a sad occasion for all at St Columba’s,” he said. “It is a tragedy when you lose a life like this. My thoughts and prayers go to the family.”