The family of a 14-year-old girl killed by a suspected drug driver on New Year’s Eve have paid tribute to the teenager, describing her as the “brightest star” in their lives.
Olivia Kolek had just been to wish her mother, Izabela Maziakowska, 41, a happy New Year at the Post Office in Rowley Regis, West Midlands, where she worked, on Friday afternoon when she was struck by a grey Mercedes car.
Two female healthcare workers, who were driving past the scene, stopped and tried to perform CPR while they waited for emergency crews to arrive. Paramedics were unable to resuscitate the teenager and she was declared dead at the scene.
The 39-year-old driver of the Mercedes, who stopped following the accident, was arrested on suspicion of driving while under the influence of drugs.
He has since been released pending further enquiries and while police await forensic test results.
‘The brightest star’
In a tribute issued by West Midlands Police, Olivia’s family said: “Our love, our heart, our life. We will love you forever and longer.
“She had a lot of plans for so many things to do. She was the brightest star in our life.”
After saying goodbye to her mother, Olivia had been on her way to a party with friends when she was struck by the car.
A West Midlands Police spokesperson said the force was appealing for witnesses to come forward.
