The “heartbroken” family of a 16-year-old killed in a hit and run crash in Orpington are fundraising to give him a “burial fit for a King”.

On October 9, Tafari Mintah was killed after the crash on Sevenoaks Way at around 3.30pm.

Tafari, from Grove Park, was riding a moped and police have said that they believe he was deliberately struck by a red Mercedes car.

This caused the moped to veer into the path of an orange Vauxhall Mokka car.

The driver of the Mokka stopped at the scene and was treated by paramedics for shock.

The Mercedes driver failed to stop at the scene and the car was found abandoned nearby a short time later.

Tafari’s family has launched a Go Fund Me to raise money for his funeral following his unexpected death.

They said: “We are heart broken by the sudden, tragic and devastating loss of our son, Tafari Mintah.

“On October 9th my beautiful son only 16 years old was tragically killed by a hit and run driver in Sevenoaks Way at approximately 3:32pm.

“Our family and friends are so distraught as Tafari had his whole life ahead of him.

“We appreciate your thoughts and prayers and if you feel you would like to support us with this profound loss we kindly ask for your financial support to help with giving Tafari a burial fit for a King.

“He did not deserve to pass away so sudden and before his time.

“No love one should have to deal with such a sudden loss of a child, brother, grandson or uncle.

“Tafari has left behind four siblings.

“Any financial support would be truly appreciated.

“Truly Thankful for helping towards Tafari’s funeral.

“Thanks for reading and take Care.”

Detective Inspector Martin Thorpe, who is leading the investigation, said: "My thoughts are with Tafari's family at this incredibly difficult time. We will continue to support them as our investigation progresses.

"The incident happened on a busy road near to the Nugent retail park. We have already spoken to a number of witnesses, but it is vital that anyone who saw the collision comes forward immediately.

"I would also ask drivers who were on Sevenoaks Way on Monday afternoon to check their dashcams for any footage of the moped or the red Mercedes before the collision occurred."

A spokesperson for Metropolitan Police said: “Detectives have named a teenage boy who died in a collision near Orpington as they continue to appeal for witnesses to come forward.

“Tafari Thompson-Mintah was riding a moped along Sevenoaks Way in St Paul's Cray when the incident happened at around 15:30hrs on Monday, 9 October.

“Despite the efforts of emergency services, the 16-year-old, who lived nearby in Grove Park, died at the scene. His family continue to be supported by officers.

“Detectives from the Met's Specialist Crime Command are leading the investigation.

“They believe Tafari's moped was deliberately struck by a red Mercedes car.

“This caused the moped to veer into the path of an orange Vauxhall Mokka car.

“The driver of the Mercedes failed to stop at the scene.

“The car was found abandoned nearby a short time later. Urgent enquiries continue to identify and locate the driver.

“The driver of the Mokka stopped at the scene and was treated by paramedics for shock.

“Anyone who can help the investigation is asked to call 101 or ‘X’ @MetCC quoting CAD 4890/09Oct.

“To remain anonymous contact the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.”