A father and son accused of murder after a child was killed in a crash have appeared in court.

Francis Patrick Maughan, 53, and Owen Maughan, 27, both of Hill Rise, Darenth, have been charged with the murder of four-year-old Peter Maughan.

The child died in hospital after the crash in New Barn Road, Southfleet, on Sunday, June 1.

The pair, who are related to Peter, are also accused of two counts of attempting to wound with intent and one charge of causing grievous bodily harm with intent.

The charges are in connection with injuries sustained by Peter’s father, Lovell Mahon, his mother, Hayley Maughan and baby sister Annarica.

Francis and Owen appeared at Sevenoaks Magistrates' Court separately earlier today and did not enter any pleas.

Their cases were sent to Maidstone Crown Court to be dealt with and both are expected to appear there within the next 48 hours.

They were both remanded in custody until then.

Mr Lovell, his wife and their children were in the same car when it was involved in a collision with another vehicle at about 9.30pm on Sunday.

Mr Mahon, 24, is currently fighting for his life at a London hospital after being seriously injured in the crash.

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

Devastated family members and friends, believed to be from the Travelling community, have paid tribute to their “Peter Rabbit” online, describing him as a beautiful “angel”.

One said: “You were golden, Peter. The family chain is broken and will never be the same without you my boy. Forever 4.”

Another added: “Rest in peace baby. A little angel way too good for this sick, cruel world. Straight to the gates of heaven.”

A third said: “So heartbreaking. A beautiful baby boy, rest in heavenly peace, angel.

“He was the kindest little boy and loving child.”

New Barn Road was shut in both directions from the A2 to Warren Road for several hours in the aftermath.

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.

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