Car crash teenager had 'the world at his feet'

The family of a teenager who died from injuries sustained in a car crash last weekend have paid tribute to a young man who they say "never ran out of love to give".

Rahulan Chelliah was one of four 18-year-old passengers in a Fiat Punto which hit a tree in Church Lane, Headley near Leatherhead at about 03:30 BST on Sunday.

He has been described by his family as a "caring and protective brother" who valued "honesty, humility and patience".

The 18-year-old man who was driving the car was arrested on suspicion of driving while unfit through drink or drugs, driving while over the limit and causing serious injury by dangerous driving and remains under investigation, Surrey Police said.

In a statement Chelliah's family said: "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."

The teenager's family said he became a "fine and principled gentleman" who was a hard worker.

They said: "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."

Chelliah's family says 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."

The three other passengers, two 18-year-old women and another 18-year-old man, remain in hospital in a stable condition, Surrey Police said.

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