Two men have been charged with murder following a collision in which a child died.

Kent Police was called just before 9.30pm on Sunday 1 June 2025 to reports of a collision involving two vehicles on New Barn RoadDartford.

Three people from the same vehicle were taken to hospital. A four year old boy died at the hospital and a 24 year old man remains in a critical condition. A one year old girl received minor injuries.

On Monday 2 June 2025, officers arrested two men in connection with the incident.

On Wednesday 4 June 2025, the Crown Prosecution Service authorised Patrick Maughan, 53 and Owen Maughan, 27, both from Hill Rise, Darenth to be charged with the murder of a four year old boy.

They have also been charged with grievous bodily harm with intent and attempted wounding with intent relating to the two people injured.

Both appeared at Sevenoaks Magistrates’ Court on Wednesday 4 June 2025 where they were remanded in custody to appear at Maidstone Crown Court on Friday 6 June 2025.

Appeal for witnesses

Detectives continue to appeal for any witnesses to the collision which involved two grey Ford Rangers.

Anyone with information which may assist the investigation, including CCTV or dashcam footage, is urged to contact the Major Crime Unit via the Major Incident Public Portal (MIPP) using this link Public Portal

Alternatively call the Major Crime Appeal Line on 01622 652006 to leave contact details.

Crimestoppers

You can also call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111 or complete their online form.