Teen fatally hit by vehicle 'could light up world'

Lily Whitehouse, 19, was struck by a vehicle in Oldbury on Wednesday 5 November

The family of a woman who was fatally struck by a vehicle and left lying in a street have described her as a beautiful girl who could light up the world with her laughter.

Lily Whitehouse, 19, was "taken from us far too soon, in a way no heart should have to bear," they said.

Ms Whitehouse was found seriously injured on Park Street, Oldbury, on the evening of 5 November and later declared dead at the scene. Detectives believe she was struck by a van on nearby Old Park Lane.

A 41-year-old man has been charged with murder and is due to appear at Wolverhampton Crown Court in December, said West Midlands Police.

Police continue to appeal for sightings of this van near Old Park Lane, Oldbury on the evening of 5 November

"We are devastated by what has happened to our Lily, the void left in our hearts will never be filled," the tribute from her family continued.

"You were so special. Nineteen years of love and laughter. Taken from us far too soon, in a way no heart should have to bear."

A vehicle has been recovered as part of the investigation into her death and is being examined, said the force.

Anyone who saw a van near Old Park Lane between 21:20 and 21:45 GMT on the evening Ms Whitehouse died is being urged to contact police.