Brother and Sister Killed in Hit-and-Run Crash on E-Scooter: Family Pays Heartfelt Tributes.
Roman Casselden, 16, and his 9-year-old sister Darcie were killed on February 1, 2025, in a devastating hit-and-run crash while riding an e-scooter near Basildon, Essex. The incident occurred on a 30mph road at 6.25pm, a spot known locally for frequent accidents. After being struck by a car that failed to stop, the two children were helped by passersby until paramedics arrived, but tragically passed away from their injuries.
The driver, a man and woman aged in their 20s, were arrested shortly after the crash on suspicion of causing death by careless driving and failing to stop at the scene. They remain in custody while Essex Police continue their investigation into the incident.
The crash occurred just days after Basildon Council voted to halt a local e-scooter hire trial, citing concerns over the increasing accidents and misuse of scooters in the area.
Roman Casselden, 16
The children’s mother, Emma Keeling, shared an emotional message on Facebook, expressing her grief over losing her “beautiful babies.” She thanked the paramedics, air ambulance crew, and members of the public who tried to save them.
“My 2 beautiful babies Roman and Darcie sadly lost their lives last night in this awful accident. The driver fled the scene. We are currently grieving at this difficult time,” she wrote. “I wish to thank everyone who has offered their support and to the paramedics, air ambulance crew and members of the public who tried in vain to save them.”
Nine-year-old Darcie Casselden
Numerous floral tributes and messages have been left at the scene of the crash, with one note reading: “Heaven’s gained two precious angels.” Another tribute described Roman as a “lovely caring person,” while other messages expressed shock and heartbreak over the tragic loss.
An online fundraising appeal has been launched to help cover funeral expenses, raising more than £22,000 in donations. A friend of the family, Josh Moore, wrote: "Tragically last night, my good friend's Son & Daughter, who were called Roman and Darcie, lost their lives while out on their scooter. It has shook us all to the core."
Detective Sergeant Sam Nason, leading the investigation, thanked the public and emergency services for their efforts. He called on anyone with information or relevant footage to come forward. “At this stage we are not providing any more information about the boy and girl who have died and I would ask that their privacy, and that of their loved ones, is respected,” he said.
The tragedy has raised local concerns about the safety of e-scooter use. In response, Basildon Council voted to cease the e-scooter hire trial set to end in May 2025. Essex Police data shows that there have been over 230 e-scooter accidents in the past five years, highlighting the increasing risk associated with their use.
Essex Police are urging anyone with information, including CCTV, dashcam, or doorbell footage, to come forward to assist with the investigation.
This tragic incident has left the community devastated, with many offering condolences and support to the family during this extremely difficult time.
