Essex student, 21, will be "missed by everyone"

Eva, 21, was in a car with three friends which collided into a building in Magdalen Street, Colchester on Saturday (1 February)

Eva Darold-Tchikaya
Author: Martha TipperPublished 4th Feb 2025

The family of Eva Darold-Tchikaya say “her happiness, enthusiasm, kindness, positive energy with always a smile on her face, will be missed by everyone”.

Eva, 21, was in a car with three friends – 24 year-old TJ Hibbert, 22 year-old DJ Wol, and Makyle Bayley, also 22 – which collided with a building in Magdalen Street, Colchester on Saturday (1 February).

All four University of Essex students died at the scene.

The scene of the crash on Magdalen Street, Colchester

Paying tribute to her, Eva’s family said: “Eva was a dearly loved daughter, sister, grand-daughter and niece.

“Her happiness, enthusiasm, kindness, positive energy with always a smile on her face, will be missed by everyone who knew her, family and friends.

“Eva was studying Sports Science at Colchester University. She was in her placement year coaching football, a member of Essex Blade Dances club and participant in other activities such as netball.

“She was passionate about dance, was a talented performer in RnB and Street Dance, attending many classes in London.

“She enjoyed cooking too.

“As Eva’s parents and family our pain has no words. We request to be left alone and allowed to grieve during this tragic time.”

Specialist officers continue to support the families of Eva, TJ, DJ, and Makyle.

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