Flowers have been left at the scene of Tuesday's accident

Woman killed by lorry in Green Lane was ‘chatting to colleagues’ moments before lunch break tragedy

by Jessica Earnshaw Thursday, March 7, 2013
9:54 AM

A “courageous” young woman killed by a lorry in Green Lane on Tuesday was chatting to colleagues moments before she died on her lunch break.

The woman was reportedly klilled as 'she walked along the zebra crossing'

Masuma Mawji, 25, was helping out at her family’s pharmacy, Nuchem, in Green Lane, Goodmayes, when she was hit by a lorry while “she walked along the zebra crossing” at 12.30pm.

The former student of nearby Mayfield School, Pedley Road, and Redbridge College, Barley Lane, Little Heath, always walked with a crutch which was left lying in the road after the accident.

Family friend Ray Mehta, who has worked with Masuma’s father for more than 30 years, said: “Masuma was very courageous and she was always out on her own despite her disability, which affected her legs.

“She always walked very slowly but she was always very careful and used the crossing. It was so sad how it happened, she was just out buying lunch.”

The family, who live in Hornchurch after moving from Dunkeld Road, Goodmayes, four years ago, are said to be “devastated” and are planning to bury their daughter as soon as possible, in line with the Islamic faith.

Mr Mehta said: “The family wanted to hold the funeral yesterday but they were not allowed to identify Masuma’s face as they were told they would not recognise her.

“We knew it was her as her crutch was lying on the floor and she never returned from lunch.

“She comes into the shop every day, helps out and talks to staff. Everyone is very upset, and they said she was in such a good mood yesterday and very chatty.”

Masuma, one of four sisters, was studying at Havering College, Harold Hill before the accident.

The driver of the lorry was arrested and bailed until May.