THE family of an 18-year-old girl killed in a crash between Ringwood and Matchams have paid tribute to ‘our princess’.

Laionie Kennard, from Verwood, tragically died after a crash on Hurn Road at around 9.30pm on Saturday (September 16).

Dorset Police said it was reported the vehicle involved, a blue BMW 1 Series, had left the carriageway and sustained extensive damage.

Emergency services attended and very sadly 18-year-old Laionie, a passenger in the vehicle, was pronounced dead at the scene.

“Laionie was our princess,” her family said. “She was the most kind, caring daughter and sister we could ever have wished for.

“Her smile would light up a room, and she was loved by so many. I cannot explain in words just how much she is going to be missed.

“We would like to thank everyone for their kind and generous donations at this unbelievably hard time, our girl will have the send off she deserves.

“We will love you forever the brightest star in the sky, our Laionie.”

A fundraising effort launched after Laionie’s tragic passing is online at https://www.gofundme.com/f/our-angel-laionie-kennard.

READ MORE: Teen, 18, killed in crash on Hurn Road near Ringwood

The three other occupants of the vehicle involved in the crash were taken to hospital. One is believed to have sustained serious injuries and the other two are believed to have sustained minor injuries.

Two men and a woman, all aged 18, were arrested on suspicion of driving offences. They have all been released under investigation while enquiries continue.

Police Sergeant Mike Gatfield, of the Roads Policing Team, said: “The thoughts of the investigation team and everyone at Dorset Police remain with the family and friends of Laionie Kennard.

“We are continuing to investigate the circumstances of the collision and I am appealing to any witnesses who have not already spoken to police, or anyone with relevant dashcam footage, to please come forward.

“We would ask that there is no speculation online about this very sad incident while officers continue their detailed enquiries.”

Anyone with information should contact Dorset Police via www.dorset.police.uk, by email to scit@dorset.pnn.police.uk or by calling 101, quoting incident number 55230147318. They can also contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.