Teenager Dies in Sittingbourne Crash: Police Urge Witnesses to Speak Up
Fatal Collision Under Investigation
Police are urgently calling on anyone who witnessed a tragic crash in Sittingbourne to come forward. The incident happened at around 10.42am on 16 April near the junction of Tonge Road and Portland Avenue.
A 17-year-old boy, who was on foot, suffered serious head injuries in the collision. He was airlifted to a London hospital but sadly died on 19 April.
Witnesses & Vehicles Key to Case
The crash occurred while a large crowd was nearby. Officers want to hear from anyone who saw the incident or has info on the vehicles involved but hasn’t spoken to police yet.
Several vehicles are believed to have been taken away from the scene. Detectives are keen to trace these cars and their owners.
Police Sergeant Jason Heather said: “Now we know the full severity of this tragedy, we urge anyone with information about the vehicles’ whereabouts to come forward. Your help is vital for the investigation and for the family seeking answers.”
Man Charged Over Deadly Crash
Robert Varrier, 29, from Sittingbourne, was charged on 19 April with causing death by dangerous driving, causing serious injury by dangerous driving, and failing to stop after a crash.
He appeared via video link at Medway Magistrates’ Court on 20 April and was remanded in custody. He will face Maidstone Crown Court on 18 May.
A 21-year-old local man arrested on suspicion of dangerous driving, vehicle theft, and driving without licence or insurance has been released pending further enquiries.
How to Help: Contact Police
- If you witnessed the crash or have dashcam/mobile footage, call Kent Police Serious Collision Investigation Unit on 01622 798538, quoting reference DB/LB/037/20.
- Email details to [email protected]
Additional Arrests Linked to Disorderly Riding
Kent Police are also probing reports of motorbikes causing chaos in the area on the same day as the crash.
Thomas Ripley, 24, from Orpington, was charged with dangerous driving, no insurance, and no licence. He pleaded guilty at Medway Magistrates’ Court on 18 April and awaits a Crown Court hearing.
Shane Ripley, 32, of Sittingbourne, faced the same charges and was bailed to appear at Medway Magistrates’ Court on 16 June 2020.
