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, February 1, 2025. The children, tragically, were declared dead at the scene after being struck by a vehicle around 6:30 PM on Walthams Place, known for its high traffic flow.
Reports indicate the car allegedly crashed straight onto the siblings, who were riding on an e-scooter when the incident occurred, before fleeing the scene. Emergency services rushed to the location, but, unfortunately, none could save the children’s lives. The driver did not stop after the collision, prompting Essex Police to conduct investigations.
Police have confirmed the arrest of a man and woman, both in their 20s, shortly after the incident on suspicion of causing death by dangerous driving and failing to stop. They currently remain in custody as inquiries continue. The siblings’ mother, Emma Keeling, was seen visiting the crash site with her partner, and their father, Alex Casselden, shared his grief on social media, deeply lamenting the loss of his children.
A GoFundMe fundraiser set up for the family has already raised over £3,000, with contributions flooding in from the local community. The fundraiser described the situation as a “heartbreaking tragedy,” inviting people to donate to assist with the funeral expenses and support for the grieving family.
The impact of this tragedy has rippled through the community, as both Roman and Darcie were well-known to local residents and attended nearby schools. Roman, noted for his talent on the football pitch, had been involved with the Achievement Through Football (ATF) charity. Community members and teachers expressed their sorrow, with one teacher recalling fond memories of Roman, stating, “You were such a good kid, a joy to teach in PE.”
Local residents have raised concerns about the speed of traffic on the 30mph road where the incident occurred, considered to be an accident blackspot. Witnesses have reported frequent speeding complaints, prompting calls for more stringent speed-calming measures. Councillor Gavin Callaghan, Leader of Basildon Council, voiced his sorrow, saying, “I can’t image 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 calling for anyone with information, CCTV, or dashcam footage to come forward. Detective Chief Inspector Stuart Hooper stated, “Specialist officers are supporting the family at this truly unimaginably difficult time. If you saw anything or have any information, please contact us immediately.”
The local community has also shown solidarity by laying floral tributes at the crash scene, with one card from the school staff stating, “I’m so sorry you have both been taken away, far too young. My thoughts and prayers are with everyone who had the joy to know you both, especially your family.” Another touching tribute emphasized, “You were both taken too soon; you will never be forgotten.”
The tragedy has sparked discussions city-wide about pedestrian safety, especially concerning the high-speed traffic prevalent on residential streets. Local residents hope this heartbreaking incident will prompt authorities to take measures to protect children and families living nearby.
Detectives are currently seen conducting door-to-door inquiries, seeking any additional witness accounts of the events surrounding the fatal crash. Temporary Assistant Chief Constable Stuart Hooper remarked, “My thoughts are with the friends and family of the girl and boy who have died. Specialist officers are supporting them through this unimaginably difficult time.”
With the community rallying around the Casselden family, there is hope for both justice and healing as they navigate this painful chapter. Above it all, the call remains clear: dangerous driving should not take away innocent lives.