Police “hunt for answers” after the deaths of two siblings in a horrific “hit-and-run” that left their family inconsolable.
Following the horrific event that occurred in Pitsea, Essex, at approximately 6:30 p.m. on Saturday, a campaign for Roman Casselden, 16, and his sister Darcie, 9, has already raised almost £3,000.
Tragically, both siblings died at the site after a car allegedly struck them on the accident blackspot, a road with a 30 mph speed restriction.
Emma Keeling, the mother of the couple, was spotted this afternoon with her partner at the crash site.
Alex Casselden, their father, expressed his sorrow over their loss in a series of heartbreaking social media posts.
Cops have confirmed they are “working tirelessly” to find answers while specialist officers are looking after the family.
The fundraiser described the “tragedy” as striking the community.
It read: “We are heartbroken for the families and loved ones of these precious children.
“In this devastating time, we want to come together to support the families with funeral expenses and other needs. Any donation, big or small, will help ease their burden.
“If you’re able to give, please consider donating to our fundraising effort. Your generosity will help honor the memories of these two young lives and provide comfort to those who loved them.”
It is believed that both kids attended the neighboring Briscoe Primary School, which welcomed bereaved staff, parents, and kids today.
According to local media sources, Darcie and Roman were reportedly playing on an e-scooter when the tragedy occurred.
It follows Basildon Council’s decision last month to end a battery-powered scooter trial because of mounting worries about the frequency of incidents involving these vehicles.
According to Labour councillor Aidan McGurran, he was “delighted” by the vote last week.
Both children are thought to have attended the nearby Briscoe Primary School, which today greeted grieving staff, parents, and children.
Local media outlets claim that Darcie and Roman were playing on an e-scooter at the time of the accident.
It comes after Basildon Council decided last month to terminate a trial of battery-powered scooters due to growing concerns about the number of accidents involving these vehicles.
Labour councillor Aidan McGurran said he was “delighted” by last week’s vote.
“Our time together watching you gain confidence in football club and seeing you play for the school, seeing that beamy smile when you scored and hearing Mr Billingham screaming your name celebrating is a great memory.”
Another read: “I can’t believe you are both gone. ATF will not be the same anymore. You were both taken too soon. You will never be forgotten.”
Other floral tributes left at the scene read: “You were both lovely people. I will always love you and remember you.”
Residents said more speed-calming measures are needed on Ashlyns, a 30-mph road that was only five minutes from their house and where the children were struck.One said: “This is a built up area with lots of children crossing the road to reach the park, playground and nearby schools.
“But cars come zooming down like it’s a 60mph country road. There’s been so many crashes recently – even one involving a police car.
“It’s sad that it takes a tragedy like this to highlight the issue but hopefully something will finally be done about it now.”
Residents said more speed-calming measures are needed on Ashlyns, a 30-mph road that was only five minutes from their house and where the children were struck.
“I can’t imagine the pain and anguish the parents and family of these two children are going through right now. We will be supporting the local community through this difficult time.
“If you saw anything or have any information on this accident, please get in touch with the police immediately.”
Today, dozens of cards and flowers were placed by mourners beside a football training top.
One message read: “I’m so sorry that you both have been taken away far too young.
“My thoughts and prayers are with everything that had the joy to know you both, especially your family.”
One man and one woman are still in detention after being arrested on suspicion of causing death by reckless driving and failure to halt at the site of an accident.
While requesting CCTV, dashcam, or doorbell footage of the deadly collision, detectives were observed doing door-to-door inquiries.
“My thoughts are with the friends and family of the girl and boy who have passed away,” said Essex Police Temporary Assistant Chief Constable Stuart Hooper.