International student, 18, knocked down and killed on first day of university

The family of an 18-year-old international student have paid tribute to their beloved son, who was knocked down and killed on his first day of university in Liverpool.

Juan Pablo Hernández Lima – who was studying urban planning at the University of Liverpool – was killed after he was knocked over by a van in the city centre last week.

Emergency services were called to the incident on Hatton Garden, near Dale Street on Monday, September 18th.

Sadly, Juan was pronounced dead at the scene.

His parents have paid tribute to their son saying he ‘felt like a citizen of the world’ and ‘will be sadly missed’.

In a tribute, Juan’s family said: “Our son Juan Pablo Hernández Lima, died in a road traffic collision on September 18th. 

“He was only 18 years old and it was his first day at the University of Liverpool, where he was about to study urban planning. 

“Juan was born in Cuba, but also had Mexican and American nationality. He felt like a citizen of the world. Furthermore, he loved the UK. He will be sadly missed by all his family.”

Detective Sergeant Kurt Timpson, Lead Investigating Officer for the MATRIX Serious Collision Investigation Unit, said: “My thoughts and those of my team remain with Juan’s family at this very sad time.  

“I have met with his mother and father following their arrival in the UK from Mexico and they continue to be supported by specially trained Police Officers.  

“They are grateful for the help of the local community, here in Liverpool, those who helped at the roadside and for the work of the emergency services.  

“An investigation is ongoing and I would ask that if you were in the area at the time, to please review your CCTV or dashcam in case the incident was captured. Every piece of information, no matter how small, could help us with our ongoing enquiries.”

Anyone with information about the incident is asked to call Merseyside Police Matrix Serious Collision Investigation Unit on (0151) 777 5747.