A TEENAGER killed in an Aberdeenshire car crash was described last night as an “angel” who would be missed and cherished.
Zoe Dunn died when her blue Renault Clio left the South Deeside road and hit a tree. It was the second fatal accident on the route this week.
On Sunday, a man died when his Volvo car crashed into a wall and burst into flames at Maryculter.
Miss Dunn was travelling between Bridge of Feugh and Durris on Thursday afternoon when she lost control of her car. As news of the 18-year-old’s death spread yesterday, more than 400 relatives, friends and former teachers shared their memories of her and posted online tributes.
Friends also visited the crash site and stood hugging each other and crying, reading poignant messages on bouquets left beside the road.
Teachers of the former Aboyne Academy pupil also remembered the youngster and described her as popular and hard-working.
Mario Di Maio, depute rector at the school, said: “Zoe was a very well liked and extremely well-respected pupil.
“She was a hard-working, committed youngster with a good group of friends and both staff and pupils valued the contribution she made during her time at Aboyne Academy.
“We are extremely saddened to hear this tragic news and extend our condolences to Zoe’s friends and family.”
Tributes also poured in via an online memorial page, with hundreds of friends leaving messages within hours of the teenager’s death. Craig Pirie, who set up the page, wrote: “Zoe, you were the best friend to many. It wasn’t your time to leave this world but at least we all know you will be still watching us from heaven.”
Another post, from Victoria Mackie, said: “I just looked through some old photos and found a really cringey one of us all posing at the beach on my birthday when we were about 10. So happy to have grown up in Bellwood with you. You are missed.”
Catherine McIntosh wrote: “I can't believe this has happened. My thoughts are with your family. You will be greatly missed and cherished.” Ruaraidh Watson said: “I love you Zoe. I loved the chats we had when I first met you. You’re an angel.”
Miss Dunn, of Bellwood Drive, Aboyne, left school last year and was working as a domestic assistant at Allachburn Care Home, at Aboyne, which is run by Aberdeenshire Council. A spokesman for the local authority extended their sympathies to her family.
Police, fire and ambulance crews were called to the B9077 South Deeside Road at about 4pm on Thursday after Miss Dunn’s car left the road and crashed into a tree.
She was pronounced dead at the scene.
The road was closed for several hours as collision investigators examined the scene. It is believed the teenager had been travelling eastwards when she crashed, coming off a bend on to a straight, wet stretch of the road.
Police are appealing for anyone who saw the Clio, which would have travelled through Banchory, turning on to Dee Street before joining the South Deeside Road, to come forward.