Teen killed crossing the road with his girlfriend honoured by school (2025)

"I take away great comfort from knowing that Ethan will long be fondly remembered by Oasis Leesbrook Academy. I hope that we have all done him proud."

Ethan Allen was a talented basketball player and an 'energetic, funny loving young boy'. When he died two days after being struck by a car, he gave the gift of life with the donation of his organs.

Now his school has honoured his memory in a perfect way. The sports hall which he once strode with confidence has been named after him.

Ethan, aged 15, was a year 10 student at the Oasis Academy Leesbrook in Oldham, when he died in May last year in an accident on Rochdale Road. Pupils, parents, and staff attended a special ceremony for the tribute.

Ethan’s family, including his mother Gillian, father Gordon, sister, Abbie, grandmother Eunice, and aunt Sarah, attended. His parents unveiled a commemorative plaque, officially naming the facility The Ethan Allen Sports Hall.

The teenager, who had recently become a basketball referee, was a popular pupil at the school. He also played for two local basketball teams.

Assistant Principal at the school, Gavin Dixon, said: "Ethan, who would now have been in Year 11, was a passionate sports enthusiast, often found in the school’s sports hall playing basketball with his friends. A devoted Chicago Bulls fan, his love for the game and his vibrant spirit left a lasting impact on those who knew him.

"To ensure Ethan’s legacy lived on, and in consultation with his family, we made the heartfelt decision to name our school sports hall in his honour. The dedication ceremony took place during a special event - Wear red for Ethan Day. On this day, students and staff were invited to wear an item of red clothing as a tribute to Ethan, celebrating his life and the joy he brought to the school community.

"The event was a poignant yet uplifting tribute, reminding us all of the kindness, energy, and passion Ethan brought to our school."

In a thank you letter to the schooI, Ethan's father, Gordon wrote: "I would like to say that Wear Red For Ethan and Red Nose Day last Friday was a very special morning for me, hearing and remembering funny stories and the uplifting positive impact that Ethan had made on his teachers and school friends during his time since becoming a Year 7 student at Leesbrook Academy.

"Ethan was always excited to tell me about his school and sport achievements and make me feel ever more proud of him.

"The milestone of what would have been his 16th birthday was made a little easier to face because of the genuine compassion and respectful understanding the staff and students all showed.

"Please accept my heartfelt thanks for having the joint honour with Gill of unveiling the beautiful plaque naming the Sports Hall in his memory. I take away great comfort from knowing that Ethan will long be fondly remembered by Oasis Leesbrook Academy. I hope that we have all done him proud."

At the time of his death his family said: "Ethan's legacy will continue to shine through in life with the donation of his organs to save another life. We are truly proud of him as much in life as in death."

Ethan had been out with friends and was crossing the street with his 14-year-old girlfriend Olivia when he was hit near the junction with King Street. Olivia escaped injury.

Paying tribute to Ethan his family said: “Ethan was a very energetic funny loving young boy who always made time for others. He was always smiling. He had a great love of the sport basketball and played for Oldham State Warriors and more recently Royton Mavericks."

Ethan's aunt, Sarah, told Mr Dixon: "Thank you from the bottom of my heart for all you and the school have done for Ethan. I really am truly honoured to be part of an amazing community. We would truly appreciate your support in sharing this far and wide so that Ethan's Legacy further lives on."