Fundraiser launched to support family of 'wonderful' girl, 3, killed in tram and van crash
A fundraiser has been launched to support the family of 'sweet' and 'caring' Lulu Palmisano, who tragically died following a collision between a tram and a van in Manchester city centre.
Lulu had been on a day out with her family on February 22 this year when a van driven by Rawal Rehman hit a tram on Mosley Street and careered onto the pavement, killing her. Rehman pleaded guilty to causing death by dangerous driving on Tuesday (April 22) after a court heard he had 'at least 20 lines of cocaine' before the incident.
Friends of Lulu's 'devastated and heartbroken' family have now shared a GoFundMe to help them 'navigate this incredibly difficult time' and 'focus on mourning and healing', adding any extra funds will go towards a memorial ensuring Lulu's 'beautiful spirit' will be remembered forever.
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Family friends Greg and Azra said the 'wonderful' three-year-old had 'touched the lives of so many' and 'had a bright and promising future' ahead of her.
"It is with profound sadness that we share the passing of Lulu Palmisano," they wrote on the fundraising platform. "Lulu was a bright spark in this world and will be deeply missed. She touched the lives of so many, and as friends of her parents, it is now our turn to support her family in their time of need.
"We are raising funds to help Lulu's family navigate this incredibly difficult time. There are many immediate and unforeseen costs they now face. Donations will assist with these urgent needs, including counselling, time away from work, and other financial pressures that arise as they grieve and adjust. Our hope is to ease the burden so that Lulu's family can focus on mourning and healing. Any extra funds will contribute to a memorial in her honour, ensuring her beautiful spirit is forever remembered.
"Young and wonderful Lulu tragically passed away during a family day out in Manchester on Saturday, 22nd February 2025.
"Her family is devastated and heartbroken. Lulu was only three years old. She loved going to nursery, adored Bluey, enjoyed reading, and had a bright and promising future ahead of her.
"As family friends, we often received updates on Lulu and heard about her sweet and kind nature at home and nursery, along with pictures of a very happy little girl. We know that nothing can bring Lulu back, but we hope that coming together in her memory will allow us all to pay tribute to a wonderful, caring, and beautiful soul.
"We sincerely appreciate any support you can give during this incredibly painful time.
"Greg and Azra, on behalf of the Palmisano family."
Speaking to the Manchester Evening News, they added: "At this time we are happy to have the Manchester Evening News support the GoFundMe campaign with sharing the link. We would like to express our thanks and appreciation to the support and kindness we have received from the GoFundMe supporters so far and thank you to anyone else who decides to support in the future."
Paying tribute to Lulu in a statement released via the police, her family said: 'Louisa (Lulu) was the sweetest, kindest, and most generous little girl. She was full of creativity and joy, and she absolutely loved going to nursery every day.
'Her absence has left a devastating void in our family—she was our only child, our whole world. We were simply enjoying a happy family day out in Manchester when this unimaginable tragedy struck. In an instant, our lives were shattered beyond repair.
"The pain of losing her is unbearable, and we miss her more than words can ever express."
You can donate to the GoFundMe here.
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