A driver who failed to stop after a fatal collision that killed a brother and sister has avoided an immediate jail sentence. Roman Casselden, 16, and his nine-year-old sister Darcie Casselden were riding an e-scooter when they were struck by a car in Ashlyns, Pitsea, Essex, on February 1 last year. Both died at the scene from traumatic head injuries.
Court Proceedings
Deimante Ziobryte, 21, pleaded guilty to failing to stop at the scene of a collision. The charge stated that Ziobryte was driving an Audi A1 and failed to stop after the accident that caused injury to Roman and Darcie. Initially arrested on suspicion of causing death by dangerous driving, the charge was later dropped in January.
At Basildon Magistrates' Court, Ziobryte was handed a three-month custodial sentence, suspended for 12 months. She was also ordered to complete 80 hours of unpaid work, 20 rehabilitation days, and was banned from driving for three years, effective from March 6. Additionally, she must pay £239 in costs.
Details of the Incident
Prosecutor Rohini Majumdar stated that Ziobryte swerved to avoid a collision but made contact with the e-scooter, resulting in fatal injuries. Ziobryte continued driving and did not stop, later making multiple calls to family members but not to police or emergency services. She never returned to the scene.
The inquest revealed that Darcie was pronounced dead at 7.10pm, and Roman at 7.50pm. Their mother, Emma, said in a statement that their love, kindness, and spirit live on in the hearts of all who knew them.
Police Investigation
Detectives from Essex Police's Serious Collision Investigation Unit concluded there were no offences related to the cause of the collision. Detective Sergeant Sam Nason said: “Regardless of what led up to the collision, Deimante Ziobryte should have stopped at the scene. She did not attempt to return to the scene and she did not call the emergency services.”
