Hit-and-Run Horror: Driver Admits Leaving Scene After Killing Seven-Year-Old Boy
A hit-and-run driver has confessed to fleeing the scene after fatally hitting a seven-year-old boy—who was then struck again by another vehicle.
Van Driver Watched Tragedy Unfold
Stewart Powell, from St Mary’s Bay, hit William Brown on December 6 in Sandgate, near Folkestone. Shocking CCTV shows Powell climbing out of his grey Peugeot van and watching as William lay injured, before driving off. William was then tragically struck by a second car.
Following the crash, emergency services rushed to the scene, but young William sadly did not survive.
Powell’s Arrest and Shocking Details
The day after William’s parents made a heartbreaking public appeal, Powell called 999, saying: “I was involved in it, I’m stressing, I don’t know what to do.” He was arrested the next day in Dymchurch. Tests revealed traces of cannabis in his system.
Powell faced multiple interviews by police over charges including:
- Causing death by dangerous and careless driving
- Failing to stop at the scene
- Perverting the course of justice
- Driving without insurance
Court Hearing and Family’s Response
At Folkestone Magistrate’s Court, Powell pleaded guilty to failing to stop and driving without insurance. He appeared tense, bowing his head and avoiding eye contact. William’s mother, Laura Brown, remained composed as the case unfolded.
Laura described her son as the “sweetest, funniest, kindest” boy. Despite her grief, she has forgiven Powell but is campaigning for tougher punishments for those who flee crash scenes.
Powell’s attempt to keep his address secret was rejected by the court, citing the importance of open justice and lack of evidence he’d be at risk.
Tributes and Legacy
William’s devastated dad paid tribute to his “gentle” and “wonderful child”, who was struck while retrieving a football near his home. William was laid to rest on January 13 at The Church of St Mary and St Eanswythe—the very spot where he often played with friends. In a rare move, King Charles granted special permission for burial in the historic graveyard, closed to burials since 1855.
On Monday, William’s father will open a shop in Folkestone town centre featuring food and drinks his son loved—a lasting memorial to the young boy taken too soon.
