Mother pays tribute to children killed in crash

The mother of two children who died after being struck by a car has paid tribute to her "beautiful angels".

Nine-year-old Darcie Casselden and her brother Roman, 16, were killed in the collision in Pitsea, near Basildon, Essex, at 18:25 GMT on Saturday.

In a statement, their mother, Emma, said Roman had a "heart of gold" and Darcie "was a soul filled with creativity and beauty".

A man and a woman, both in their 20s, were arrested on suspicion of causing their deaths by dangerous driving and failing to stop at the scene of an accident.

Essex Police said the pair were later released, with a woman bailed and a man released under investigation.

Officers believed the Roman and Darcie were riding a privately owned e-scooter when they died.

Paying tribute to Roman, Ms Casselden said: "His warmth and generosity touched so many lives, bringing smiles, hope, and encouragement to those who needed it most."

She added her son left a legacy of "selflessness, compassion and an unwavering belief in the goodness of people".

She described her daughter as "a wonderful individual who brought joy and inspiration to those lucky enough to know her".

Ch Supt Leighton Hammett said: "The whole community is mourning for the loss of Roman and Darcie."

The force has appealed for witnesses to the incident and dashcam footage.

A fundraising page set up to help the children's family has raised more than £29,000.

Hearts Academy Trust, which runs Briscoe Primary School where the siblings were both pupils, also paid tribute to them.

A statement from chief executive Don Wry said: "We are deeply saddened regarding the news of the sudden death of one of our pupils, Darcie, and her brother Roman (who also attended our school up to the 24 July 2019).

"During this time of immeasurable loss, our thoughts and sympathies are with Darcie and Roman's family, friends and to all those who knew them both."

One card left by a member of staff at a local school read: "I'm so sorry that you have both been taken away, far too young.

"My thoughts and prayers are with everyone that had the joy to know you both, especially your family."

The charity Achievement Through Football also paid tribute to the children.

It said in a post on Facebook: "We're all devastated by the deeply felt loss of such a loved and valued team member and friend Roman, and his precious sister Darcie.

"With his warmth, gentleness and ever-willing nature, Roman massively blossomed with us over the past year, which has been a delight to witness. We will deeply miss him.

"We are so privileged to be part of such a special community where we can help to carry each other through such hard times."

Emma Callaghan, the Labour councillor for Pitsea North West, said: "Following the tragic fatal collision on Saturday night, we've launched a petition calling on Essex County Council to take urgent road safety measures in Ashlyns.

"This follows the letter sent to [the council] yesterday, demanding action and a clear plan within 28 days."

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