Jonathan Roberts, a first year historian at Somerville, died in the early hours of the morning of the 25th of June, the weekend before he was due to start his prelims.
Jonathan, known as Jonny to his friends, was hit by a car on the A34 exit slip at Redbridge Hollow, heading towards Kennington. He was taken to the John Radcliffe hospital, but later died from his injuries.
Somerville has said that the College is “saddened by this tragedy” and extends “deepest sympathy to the Roberts family and all of Jonny’s many friends”.
The College’s statement reads, “The entire community of Somerville is shocked and saddened by Jonathan’s tragic death.
“His tutors and fellow students have paid tribute to his ‘upbeat and sunny nature’, an ‘easy-going guy who knew how to have fun’ and ‘a truly lovely guy’. He was excellent company and enjoyed Oxford life to the full.
“Our thoughts and sympathy are with his family and friends, in this dreadful time of loss and sorrow. He will be very much missed.”
Somerville held a gathering in celebration of Jonny’s life at their chapel on Thursday. The commemorative service featured organ music by Sam Baker (Pembroke), singing by the Somerville choir and a prayer by John Donne read by Roberts’ friend Charlie Chichester.
Jonny’s personal tutor Dr Natalia Nowakowska gave an address, describing Jonny as a “slight and funny young man, always ready with a smile and a humorous comment, with an enquiring mind and a big personality.”
Jonny’s family have released a tribute saying they are devastated by the loss.
“Jonathan was best friend and mentor to his three sisters, Sarah, Lizzie and Helena. He was a wonderful son and made his parents [Russell and Penny] very proud of who he was and what he had achieved.
“He had lovely friends, whom I know he would want to go on and do well in life with a spot in their hearts – that is Jonnie.”
Friends have remembered Jonny fondly. One Oxford student commented, “I knew Jonny from home, he was such a great guy and I was so happy he was around at Oxford too. I was so shocked to hear about the road accident, you never think that sort of thing happens to your friends. Everyone will really, really miss Jonny.”
The family and Thames Valley Police are appealing for anyone with information about the incident to contact Thames Valley Police on 08458 505 505, or alternatively the charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
Dr Nowakowska’s address can be read in full at http://www.some.ox.ac.uk/CMS/files/JonnyRobertsaddress.pdf.
