A teenager who died in a tragic crash on the M8 has been remembered as a 'young man who loved life'.
Asher Tumwijukye was pronounced dead at the scene of the crash near Newhouse in the early hours of Saturday morning after the car he was driving collided with a stationary lorry.
The 19-year-old from the north of the city was a valued member of West Park United Football Club and a student of the City of Glasgow college. He has been described as the 'kindest person' who was obsessed with football and would do anything for his friends and family.
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A fundraiser has been set up to help pay for his send-off and ease the financial burden now facing his family.
Close friend Esther Akeju, 19, told Glasgow Live that Asher was "the kindest, most generous, sweetest person that anyone could ever come across".
She said: "Asher would do anything for anyone. He would give the time, energy, or money to make sure people were good. He was an angel.
"He was studying to become a sports therapist and had dreams of opening his own clinic. He played football on the side because he loved it so much."
Asher came from a Ugandan family and was born in London before moving to Glasgow. He leaves behind his beloved mum Juliet, sister Alvita, and brother Aarn as well as his dad Joseph Tumwijukye who is said to be 'absolutely devastated’.
His family and friends have been left in shock and disbelief by his sudden death.
Esther explained: "It has come as a shock to everyone because he was just here with us. It's really hard for everyone to come to terms with.
"We're just trying to get through the next steps of organising the funeral and a celebration of his life. We're hoping that the fundraiser will cover the costs of the funeral and support his mum long-term.
"Asher gave so much to other people so we're hoping to do the same for him and give back what he gave us."
As well as the funeral, Asher's loved ones have organised a football tournament next Saturday in his honour to raise money for the family followed by a gathering in Robroyston Park for a balloon release to celebrate his life.
Over £8,000 has so far been raised with tributes pouring in for the popular teenager.
Writing on the fundraiser, Esther added: "Asher left an indelible mark on all those who knew him, making our world a better place through his kindness, compassion, and unwavering spirit. As we come together in celebrating his life and legacy, let us keep his memory alive in our hearts forever.
"We thank you for your support during this difficult time. Your love, kindness, and generosity are invaluable as we work through our grief and ensure that Asher's memory lives on."
Among those paying tribute to the Glasgow teen were his former teammates at West Park United Football Club. The club said: "Our deepest condolences go to Asher’s family at this painful time.
"Asher played with distinction as Goalkeeper with our 2004’s team from March 2019 to May 2021, where his academic talents took him to university. A young man who loved life and life loved him right back has been taken too soon.
"A young man who made many friends in his brief time with us and who will be sorely missed. A young man who was a son, a brother, a student, a footballer. A young man.
"Shine bright on your journey Asher, shine bright."
To donate to the fundraiser for Asher, click here.
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