Aberdeen boy found ‘on fire’ dies in hospital
The seven-year-old boy who was found “on fire” in the street on Friday has died, police say. Relatives of Preston Flores describe him as a “special little boy” whose loss has ripped the family apart.
“Preston’s family want to inform the public that their precious little boy has passed away and is at rest.
“He meant the world to his family and will always be deeply missed and loved. Preston was a special little boy and his loss has ripped our family apart,” said the boy’s mother Luisza.
She added: “On behalf of our family I would like to thank everyone for their support but would ask that we are now allowed to grieve in peace for Preston.”
Found by neighbours
The boy was discovered by neighbours, who put out the flames engulfing him from the neck down. He was rushed to hospital in Aberdeen, before being transferred to the Royal Hospital for Sick Children in Edinburgh, and police initially described his condition as critical.
It was reported that petrol could have been involved in the incident, and police confirmed they were given reports by neighbours that it may have come from a council van. But they could not confirm any other details and said on Saturday that there was no evidence Preston was set alight on purpose.
Police said a report will be sent to the procurator fiscal in due course, as is usual procedure.
Detective Inspector Lorna Ferguson, of Police Scotland, said: “Our thoughts are with Preston’s family, friends and the Bedford community at this sad time.”
‘Fun-loving boy’
Preston was a pupil at Sunnybank School in Aberdeen.
Its acting headteacher, Michelle McKay, said: “Preston was a lively and competitive little boy who loved football, PE and all sorts of outdoor activities, as well as board games, baking and building with Lego.
“He was a fun-loving boy with a great sense of humour and lots of friends. He loved his family too, and was always sharing with us the latest news about his new baby brother.
“This is a tragic time for his family, for the school and for everyone connected to it. We are all so saddened by what has happened.
“This is a strong and close-knit community, however, and so we are all supporting each other and I am sure that, together, we will find ways of coming to terms with our loss.”