Tragic Hit-and-Run Shocks Sandgate: Seven-Year-Old William Brown Killed

A heartbreaking hit-and-run in Sandgate, near Folkestone, has left the community reeling. Seven-year-old William Brown was fatally struck while fetching his football. Just hours after the tragedy, a fundraiser to honour him has surged past £6,000.

What Happened?

  • William was hit by a car one evening while retrieving his football.
  • A man has been arrested and later bailed in connection with the crash.

Family Launches Fundraiser for William’s Funeral

  • William’s mother, Laura Brown, set up a GoFundMe with a target of over £10,000 to give her son “the send-off he truly deserves.”
  • By 2:30 pm the same day, nearly £5,000 had already been donated.

Family and Community Speak Out

  • Mrs Brown thanked supporters and urged everyone to spread William’s story and kindness.
  • William’s father requested his son be laid to rest at the peaceful Church of St Mary & St Eanswythe in Folkestone.
  • The fundraiser attracted almost 200 donors, including two generous £1,000 contributions.
  • William’s dad made a touching plea for information from his son’s bedroom—highlighting their grief.

Ongoing Police Investigation

  • Police are probing a fatal collision involving two vehicles linked to the incident.
  • A suspect faces charges including causing death by dangerous driving and has been released on bail.

Tributes Pour In Across Sandgate

  • Floral tributes now line William’s home on Sandgate Esplanade.
  • St Mary & St Eanswythe Church opened a condolence book and invites locals to light candles in William’s memory.

Community Mourns a “Gentle” Young Life Cut Short

  • The Brown family has been overwhelmed by community support in this time of grief.
  • William is remembered as a “wonderful child,” full of life and loved by all.

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