AN 11-year-old boy who was killed in a suspected hit-and-run that also claimed the life of his father ‘brought joy to everyone he met’, his head teacher has said.
St Clement’s School pupil Charlie Lowe died along with his father, Dean (48), after they were hit by a vehicle as they walked along Rue de Fauvic towards St Clement’s Church on Saturday night.
A 28-year-old man who was arrested on Sunday, on suspicion of causing death by dangerous driving and failing to stop and report an accident, was released on bail yesterday while investigations continue.
In a statement, St Clement’s School head teacher Richard Heaven called Charlie ‘the most charismatic of pupils who brought laughter and joy to everyone he met’.
‘He showed a love for performing; he relished being on stage. He also showed particular interest in the areas of science and history.
‘As a school community we are shocked and devastated by this tragic news. Our thoughts are with Charlie’s and Dean’s family at this time,’ Mr Heaven said.
The Educational Psychology Team and CAMHS’ Early Intervention Service were at St Clement’s School to support pupils, staff and families yesterday.
A spokesperson for the Jersey Employment Trust, where Mr Lowe worked, said that the organisation was ‘devastated’ by the loss of ‘much-loved and respected colleague and friend, Dean Lowe, and his son, Charlie, of whom he was so proud’.
The statement continued: ‘There was no one more dedicated and passionate than Dean about what he did, supporting people who have a disability or long-term health condition into work.
‘It often seemed like he knew everyone in Jersey, and certainly anyone who has met him would agree he was full of life and fun and, at all times, JET’s greatest ambassador.
‘Dean, who has worked with us since 2006, was an employment co-ordinator and more recently employer engagement manager, working tirelessly to promote our services to employers and setting up links with corporates and businesses as well as industry bodies such as Digital Jersey, the Jersey Retail Association and Jersey Finance.
‘He had recently started a programme to introduce neurodiversity training in businesses.
‘We send our heartfelt love and condolences to Dean’s family and friends.
‘His loss will no doubt be felt right across our Island community due to the nature and dedication of the work he so passionately undertook, and he will be sadly missed by us all.’
Mr Lowe was also a respected musician who played as part of a duo called 24/7, who performed at the Dolphin, in Gorey, the night before the tragedy.
Geoff Mayger, of the Marina Metro Hotel, paid tribute to Mr Lowe.
‘We described Deano as our “Frank Sinatra crooner” – he was a great entertainer and really popular with hotel guests and locals,’ Mr Mayger said. ‘He’d been performing here for a number of years, but then was out of action after an accident last year and only came back a couple of months ago.
‘It’s so sad. Deano was in here just last Friday for a drink after work and cracking jokes as usual – it’s hard to believe what happened.’
Chief Minister Kristina Moore paid tribute to the pair on behalf of the government, saying they were all ‘deeply saddened following the tragic incident’.
She added: ‘Dean was well known and loved by so many people for his community spirit and the passion he had for helping others.
‘Dean was a proud father to Charlie, and it is always particularly shocking when a child has their life taken from them. My heartfelt thoughts and prayers are with Dean and Charlie’s family and friends.’
Deputy Moore said the States police and government agencies would continue to work to respond to the tragedy and care for the bereaved family.
Anyone with CCTV or dash-cam footage filmed in the area of Rue de Fauvic between 9pm and 9.40pm on Saturday is asked to call the States police on 612612 using option 2 then option 4 or call the independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 or via their anonymous online form at Crimestoppers-uk.org
Following the tragic incident, the government has reminded parents and carers that there is support available if their child or teenager has been impacted by the news.
The Youth Enquiry Service can support any young person under the age of 25 and staff are available for them to talk to.
Their opening hours are:
Monday – Friday (2pm – 6pm)
Saturday (11am – 4pm)
Call 0800 7350 010 or visit the website: yes.je.
There is also the online mental wellbeing community Kooth. Go to: kooth.com and select ‘Jersey Kooth’ during the sign-up process.
