We are deeply saddened by the recent tragedy that occurred on Tuesday, 18 March, which has profoundly affected our King’s community. We extend our deepest condolences to the family, friends, and loved ones of Aalia Mahomed, who tragically lost her life. Our thoughts are also with another student who remains in hospital, and we continue to hope for their recovery.

In the wake of this incident, we want to ensure that students feel supported and have a platform to express their concerns. To honour Aalia’s memory, support the student who remains in the hospital, and provide spaces for reflection and community support, we have taken the following steps:

1. A Vigil: We believe it is important to provide students with a space to come together and pay their respects. We will be working with the University, including the Chaplaincy, to organise a vigil in a way that aligns with Aalia’s family’s wishes. This will serve as an opportunity for students to grieve collectively and reaffirm the strength of our community.

2. Varsity Tribute: As a mark of respect, we will request that all King’s sports teams participating in Varsity observe a moment of silence in Aalia’s memory. We recognise the importance of ensuring that this tribute is conducted appropriately and respectfully.

3. Engagement with Concerned Students: We are aware that many students have expressed concerns following this incident. We want to assure you that we take these concerns seriously. We will be engaging with the University to discuss the issues raised and explore any necessary actions. Additionally, we are happy to facilitate meetings between the University and concerned students to ensure your voices are heard.

4. Pending Family Approval: We are committed to respecting the family's wishes during this difficult time. To ensure our actions align with their preferences, we have asked King’s, as the primary point of contact with the family, to seek their consent on any next steps, for example, setting up a donation link in the student’s name. While we have shared a few ideas, we understand the need to proceed with sensitivity and will only move forward with initiatives that respect the family's wishes. We will provide an update once we receive further clarity.

5. Support for the Hospitalised Student: We are aware that King’s staff have visited the hospital and are in regular contact with the student’s family. We will continue working closely with the university to stay updated on their condition and any support they may need.

6. Support Available to Students: We understand that this incident has affected many within our community. If you need support, we encourage you to reach out to the following services:

   • King’s Counselling & Mental Health Support: Professional mental health and wellbeing support is available for all students. You can access these services through King’s Student Services Online.

   • Chaplaincy Services: The King’s Chaplaincy team, including Rev’d Dr Ellen Clark-King, is available for students seeking comfort, guidance, or a quiet space for reflection.

   • Personal Tutors & Faculty Support: If you need additional academic support during this time, please reach out to your personal tutor or faculty services.

If you have concerns or would like to discuss how we can best support you during this time, please do not hesitate to contact your KCLSU Officers. Your thoughts and feedback are important in shaping the steps we take moving forward.

Thank you for your continued support in standing together as a community during this difficult time.