Family Pay Tribute to 18-year-old Who Died Following Collision

Published on: 10 Sep, 2026
Updated on: 10 Sep, 2026

The family of an 18-year-old man who died following a collision in Headley, near Leatherhead, on Sunday (September 6), have paid tribute to him.

Rahulan Chelliah was one of five teenagers seriously injured in the collision. He was taken to hospital but subsequently died.

See: Five Teenagers Injured in Collision – Driver Arrested

His family said this week: “We are heartbroken to announce the sudden passing of our beloved son, brother and friend, Rahulan Chelliah.

“From a young age, Rahulan never had to try hard to bring a smile to people’s faces. Beyond being a cheeky child who loved to make everyone laugh, Rahulan was a caring and protective brother, not only to his younger sister but also to his friends. He could always spot if someone was upset and never failed to cheer them up.

“Growing up, Rahulan was a passionate cricket all-rounder. This passion extended beyond the pitch: Rahulan was no stranger to the value of hard-work and sacrifice. He was committed to helping with the family business as well as those closest to him.

“Rahulan became a fine and principled gentleman, who valued honesty, humility and patience. With the world at his feet and his dream university on the doorstep, Rahulan was a confident and charismatic young man; people would naturally gravitate towards him.

“Despite his recent passing, however, we could not be more touched to see so many of us gather in mourning and celebration of Rahulan’s life. It is clear that this has not only broken the hearts of his family and friends but is a deep loss to the wider community.

“During this difficult period, Rahulan has united us all together by our love for him. He cared about the people in his life and always knew how to support them, bringing out the best in them.

“As he passes above us, Rahulan knows the legacy he has built; his life will always be cherished and honoured. Rahulan never ran out of love to give, teaching us that what makes life is the people that are in it.

“Although our dearest Rahulan was taken from us too soon, we could not be more grateful that he experienced the joys of life to the fullest. Love for our Rahulan will always endure. The world’s best friend will be sorely missed.”