Two men have been charged with murder over a car crash in which a four-year-old boy died. Patrick Maughan, 53 and Owen Maughan, 27, both from Hill Rise, Darenth, are due to appear at Sevenoaks Magistrates’ Court on Wednesday over the child’s death. Two pickup trucks collided on New Barn Road in Dartford, Kent, just before 9.30pm on Sunday.
Three people needed hospital treatment, including the boy, a one-year-old girl who received minor injuries, and a 24-year-old man who is in a critical condition. Patrick and Owen Maughan are also both charged with grievous bodily harm with intent and attempted wounding with intent relating to the two people injured. Kent Police is continuing to appeal for information about the crash, which involved two grey Ford Rangers.
Wellwishers paid tribute to the youngster, who died in hospital and who has been named locally as Peter, on Facebook.
One wrote: “Rest in peace Peter Rabbit please everyone keep them in your prayers it’s a cruel world.”
Another described it as “the saddest thing I’ve heard”, explaining that they had never seen Peter without his mother by his side.
They added: “Keep her and her husband in prayer and her beautiful little baby boy may you watch over her and him I can’t imagine what she’s going through.”
A third friend added: “Can not believe I’m writing this RIP Peter rabbit. [He] was the kindest little boy loving child.”
Anyone with information which may assist the investigation, including CCTV or dashcam footage, is being asked to contact the Major Crime Unit via the Major Incident Public Portal (MIPP) using this link Public Portal
Alternatively they call the Major Crime Appeal Line on 01622 652006 to leave contact details.
Witnesses can also call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111 or complete their online form.
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