Roman Casselden, aged 16, and his nine-year-old sister Darcie tragically lost their lives in a hit-and-run incident involving an e-scooter in Pitsea, near Basildon, Essex, on 1 February 2025.
The fatal collision occurred around 6:25pm near the Stokefelde junction when the siblings’ e-scooter pulled out in front of a car. The driver involved fled the scene without offering assistance.
At Chelmsford Coroner’s Court, Coroner Michelle Brown described the deaths as “absolutely tragic” and fought back tears during the emotional inquest. She expressed deep sympathy for the family, recognising the severe injuries and the overwhelming loss they endured.
The driver, Deimante Ziobryte, 21, from Benfleet, was found guilty of failing to stop after the collision. Despite evidence indicating she could not have avoided the crash, Ziobryte received a suspended prison sentence in May.
The siblings, who were pupils at Briscoe Primary School, suffered fatal head injuries and were pronounced dead at the scene. Their mother, Emma Keeling, identified their bodies and fondly remembered Darcie as “a proper little madam” and Roman as having “a heart of gold.”
Coroner Brown thanked the family for their dignity throughout the inquest and highlighted the profound impact this tragedy has had on both the family and the wider community.
Originally published by UKNIP.
