The family of two siblings, Roman Casselden, 16, and his sister Darcie, 9, have been left devastated after the pair were killed in a hit-and-run incident in Pitsea, Essex on Saturday evening, 1 February 2025.
The children were tragically declared dead at the scene after being struck by a vehicle around 6:30pm on Walthams Place, a residential area known for its high traffic flow. The car allegedly crashed into the siblings, who were believed to have been on an e-scooter at the time of the collision, before fleeing the scene.
Emergency services rushed to the location, but despite their efforts, the children’s lives could not be saved. The driver of the vehicle failed to stop after the collision, and police have confirmed that a man and woman, both in their 20s, were arrested shortly after on suspicion of causing death by dangerous driving and failing to stop at the scene. They remain in custody as investigations continue.
The siblings’ mother, Emma Keeling, was seen visiting the crash site with her partner on Sunday, while their father, Alex Casselden, expressed his heartbreak on social media.
A GoFundMe fundraiser for the children’s family has already raised over £3,000, with contributions pouring in from the local community. The page described the incident as a “heartbreaking tragedy” and urged people to donate to help with funeral expenses and provide support to the grieving family.
The tragedy has struck the local community hard, with both Roman and Darcie being students at nearby schools. Roman was known for his talent in football and had been involved with the Achievement Through Football (ATF) charity. Tributes from friends, teachers, and members of the community have flooded in, with one teacher remembering Roman fondly, saying, “You were such a good kid, a joy to teach in PE.”
Local residents have also voiced concerns about the speed of traffic in the area, with many calling for more speed-calming measures. The collision occurred on a 30mph road, which is an accident blackspot, and witnesses reported that cars often speed through the residential area.
Councillor Gavin Callaghan, Leader of Basildon Council, expressed his deep sorrow over the incident, saying, “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.”
Essex Police continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding the collision and are appealing for anyone with information, CCTV, or dashcam footage to come forward. Detective Chief Inspector Stuart Hooper of Essex Police said, “Specialist officers are supporting the family at this truly unimaginably difficult time. If you saw anything or have any information, please contact us immediately.”
As the investigation unfolds, the local community is rallying around the family, hoping to bring closure and justice for Roman and Darcie.
