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A fundraiser to support the arts in memory of a talented 11-year-old performer tragically killed in a suspected hit-and-run along with his father has surpassed its £25,000 target in less than 48 hours.
Dean Lowe (48) and his son, Charlie, 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 on suspicion of causing death by dangerous driving, and failing to stop and report the collision. He was later released on bail to allow for further investigations to be carried out.
When Dean and Charlie were named by police officers on Monday, there was an outpouring of condolences and tributes on social media celebrating the "hero" dad and his "charismatic" son.
Pictured: At the time of writing, the fundraising page had raised over £30,000.
A fundraising page was set up in memory of the pair, with the aim of "having a positive impact in the island for performing arts" – one of Dean and Charlie's "passions in life".
The initial aim of the page was to raise £25,000 but, at the time of writing, had surpassed the £30,000 mark.
The fundraiser was set up by Craig Le Boutillier, who is the brother of Dean’s fiancée, Ashleigh.
After the fundraiser passed the £25,000 mark, he posted on the page: "Our family are overwhelmed with the support that has been given in reaching the initial target of £25,000 in just 24 hours, and we wish to extend our gratitude for everyone’s generosity.
"We have extended the fund raising target in the hope of raising as much money as possible in memory of Dean and Charlie to support the causes they were so passionate about.
"Thank you once again for showing such support."
Pictured: Tributes described 48-year-old Dean Lowe as a "talented musician, born entertainer with a heart of gold".
Yesterday, Craig told Express that "because Dean and Charlie’s lives were cut so short", their family "wanted a way to honour them going forward".
He explained that donations would be "used to help their family and also to benefit young amateur dramatics and disadvantaged communities in the island".
Craig said he hoped the fund would give "aspiring entertainers, musicians and drama students a chance to shine, allowing for further education and tuition to pursue their hobbies and of course to continue to aid the development of those with learning disabilities".
He described Dean as a "real character" and a "born entertainer", who was in a band in Manchester during his teenage years and was involved in the local performing scene in Jersey as soon as he moved to the island.
"Whether he was helping or entertaining, Dean was just a real people-person," he added.
Pictured: Like his dad, 11-year-old Charlie also had a "talent and passion for performing in amateur dramatics".
Craig said that Dean’s passion for performing had "rubbed off" on his son Charlie.
"My nephew was never sporty," he explained. "Charlie always wanted to make people laugh so naturally fell into dramatic arts.
"I can’t believe we were watching him on stage at the Arts Centre in a show just three weeks ago."
Craig hopes that the money can be used to establish a foundation in memory of the father and son, and "make a change in an area they were both so passionate about".
He added that their family "wanted to do something positive for the community" and "give back to the island".
"The island really comes together in situations like this," said Craig. "It feels like the whole island is hurting with us."
He added that the family want to thank everyone who has donated so far.
"We may not recognise all the names but we are feeling all the love," he said.
You can donate to the Crowdfunder set up in memory of Dean and Charlie Lowe HERE.
The Government has issued a reminder that there is support available for islanders of all ages who feel impacted by the tragic news.
Youth Enquiry Service - YES can support any young person under the age of 25 and staff are available for them to talk to. Call 0800 7350 010 or drop in Monday - Friday 14:00-18:00, or Saturday 11:00-16:00.
Kooth - an online mental wellbeing community for young people.
Children and Families Hub - the hub is open Monday to Thursday 08:30 to 17:00, and Fridays between 08:30 and 16:30. They can be reached on the phone (01534 519000) or via email at childrenandfamilieshub@gov.je.
Listening Lounge - The counselling service is open seven days a week from 10:00 to 22:00. People can call 01534 866793 or walk in.
Bereavement Support and Counselling (Jersey Hospice) - The service can be reached on the phone (01534 285144) or via email bereavement@jerseyhospicecare.com.
Anyone who requires urgent mental health support and help can call Adult Mental Health 24-hour crisis line: 01534 445290.
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