Tributes pour in for "hero" father and son killed in Grouville hit-and-run

Monday 07 August 2023

Tributes have been flooding in for the "hero" dad, who "committed tirelessly to providing opportunities for those in need", and his 11-year-old son, after both were killed in a tragic crash over the weekend.

Father and son Dean (48) and Charlie Lowe were hit by a vehicle as they walked along Rue de Fauvic in the direction of St. Clement’s Church on Saturday evening.

All Emergency Services headed to the area of the crash and the pair were taken to A&E, but both sadly died from their injuries later in the night despite extensive efforts to save them.

A 28-year-old man – who has not been named – was arrested in St. Helier yesterday on suspicion of causing death by dangerous driving, and failing to stop and report the collision. The force said this morning that he was still in custody.

When Dean and Charlie were named by police officers earlier today, there was an outpouring of condolences and tributes on social media.

48-year-old Dean – who worked for the Jersey Employment Trust for the last 17 years in various different capacities and recently raised money by completing the Virtual London Marathon – was described as an "incredible man".

Commenting on Facebook, James Montgomery said that "Jersey has lost a hero".

He said: "Dean was a voice for inclusion, and a champion for disabilities and neurodiversity.

"He committed tirelessly to providing opportunities for those in need and giving those with a difference a chance to be part of society and succeed in their aspirations – it was a pleasure to have worked with him on projects and am forever grateful for his support."

Alvin Aaron described the father as "a big character and well known local entertainer", whilst other commenters told of his "big heart" and "smile".

Nathan Paterson said: "Dean was an amazing man and brilliant musician. Watched him on Friday night.

"So many people thought so highly of him."

Pictured: Tributes were paid on social media to 48-year-old Dean, who was "an amazing man and brilliant musician".

Marcus Harley commented: "Rest in peace my friend. You will be remembered as the biggest inspiration to many people with your positive approach to life, myself included.

"A great man and even better father and partner. You where always a kind and loving friend.

"Going to miss the banter and that voice of yours lad! So much love to your family at this sad time."

"Very very sad indeed," said Gary Bellot. "RIP Dean and Charlie, I will miss all the banter about football and your swipes at Spurs.

"Too young to die, the world has lost two beautiful and kind souls."

Bean Around the World coffee shop also posted a tribute on social media, calling Dean a "friend of the Bean" and a "positive influence to all who knew him".

Debra McGrellis said: "Both taken far too soon. Dean you will be missed you had a big heart and always a smile on your face.

"Thinking of your family at this devastating time."

Kevin Pallot added: "So gutted to hear this news. Dean was a great guy and musician, and will be sorely missed by all who knew him.

"Devastating to hear about his son too and my heart goes out to his partner."

"This is so sad," wrote Paul James. "Dean was a member at the gym I work at for a bit. Always so nice and always had banter about football.

"My condolences to his family for the loss of Dean but also Charlie, the poor kid dying so young. It’s not fair."

Pictured: 11-year-old Charlie Lowe.

Louise Eden described Dean as "one of the truly nicest guys, who spent his life trying to make a difference for others".

Lola Le Vesconte said: "Thank you Dean for being one of my biggest supporters growing up, you were so special."

She added: "So happy to have watched you grow the the person you became Charlie, rest easy little one."

Milo Baudains described the father and son as "both amazing people".

A police spokesperson said: "Our thoughts are with the family and friends of Dean and Charlie and we offer our sincere condolences to them at this very sad time."