Shock at sudden death of eight-year-old Inverness girl

Chloe McCowat who sadly died earlier this week

TRIBUTES have been paid to "a popular, thoughtful and caring" eight-year-old Inverness girl who died suddenly from what is believed to be an asthma attack.

Chloe McCowat, a P4 pupil, was sent home from Central Primary School on Tuesday afternoon after complaining of feeling unwell.

But her condition deteriorated and although she was taken by ambulance to Raigmore Hospital, she died in the accident and emergency department at 6.30pm.

Northern Constabulary is investigating and a spokesman said its enquiries would be looking into the full circumstances of Chloe’s tragic death.

"There are no indications at this time that there are any suspicious circumstances," he said. "All the relevant facts will be reported to the Procurator Fiscal."

Yesterday, the family was not at the third floor flat in Springfield Gardens where Chloe lived with her mother, Jaime, and partner, her brother Connor and baby sister. It is understood they have gone to stay with relatives.

The family yesterday issued a statement through the police. "Chloe was popular, thoughtful and caring daughter, sister, grand-daughter, niece and cousin," it said.

"She had a bond with not only her family but her friends and everyone else who knew her. Her family will never get over her sudden, tragic and devastating loss."

Rhona MacCormick, acting head teacher at the 250-pupil school in Kenneth Street, also paid tribute. "Chloe was a beautiful wee girl and the whole school community are shocked and deeply saddened by her sudden death," she said. "She was a faithful and caring friend who was always there for others, providing a shoulder to cry on or a laugh and a giggle.

"She loved life and was popular with everybody. She was always willing to do her best and try her hardest and loved helping others with their reading, swimming, gymnastics, violin and maths.

"The absence of her warm smile will leave a huge gap in Central Primary.

"Our condolences go to Chloe’s family and they know they can rely on the school to do everything possible to support them in the difficult times ahead."

Neighbours in the quiet cul-de-sac were stunned by the news of the little girl’s death.

James Gillan, who lives in the same block, said everyone’s thoughts were with the family.

"She was just a little girl — you would see her playing with all the kids in the park," the hospital porter said.

Chloe was a member of the 4th Methodist Brownies for almost two years up until last Christmas and leader Sam Behan said it was a terrible shock to hear about her death.

"She was a lovely wee girl, she was no bother," said Ms Behan. "She was like a wee mother and was good to all other girls."

Ms Behan said Chloe’s asthma never seemed to affect her. "It was never an issue," she said.

During a visit to the Landmark adventure park in Carrbridge Chloe went on all the slides and climbed to the top of the fire tower, Ms Behan added.

Shona Haslam, national director of Asthma UK Scotland, said there were currently about 72,000 children across Scotland with asthma.

"We don’t yet know the circumstances behind this tragic case and our thoughts are with Chloe’s family at this time," Mrs Haslam said.

"There are around 100 deaths in Scotland every year as a result of asthma attacks. Around four of these are children."

She encouraged any concerned parent to speak to their asthma nurse or contact the advice line on 0800 121 62 44.