Danny Wake: Inquest Into Darlington Hit And Run

8 July 2014, 11:10

The coroner at the inquest into the death of a toddler from Darlington, who was killed in a hit and run in the town, has recorded a verdict of accidental death.

3 year old Danny Wake was walking with his mum, brother and another child through the town on Monday 4th November 2013 when it's believed he strayed into the road and was hit by an unknown vehicle.

Police believe the vehicle that hit the boy was a van - although the driver hasn't been traced.

In the days following the crash a 24-year-old man was arrested on suspicion of causing death by dangerous driving before being released without charge.

An inquest into the boy's death was opened and adjourned earlier this year.

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UPDATED 4th February 2014

Crimestoppers is offering a reward of up to £3,000 for information that leads to the arrest and prosecution of a driver that killed a three year old boy in Darlington

Danny Wake was returning from a trip to town with his mother, brother and another child at around 10.35am on Monday 4th November when it is believed that he strayed into the road and was hit by an unknown vehicle.

The purpose of the trip was to collect a toy catalogue so that he could choose his Christmas presents.

The incident occurred near the junction of Neasham Road and Falmer Road, but the driver of the vehicle failed to stop and may not even be aware of what had happened.

Crimestoppers is offering a reward of up to £3,000 for information passed to the charity's 0800 555 111 number that leads to an arrest and prosecution of the person responsible.

Kayren Winter, Danny's mum, said:
"We cannot begin to describe how difficult and painful the last three months have been for our family.

Our lives changed forever on the 4th November last year when our beautiful little boy Danny was taken from us.

What has made it so much harder is not knowing why this has happened.

Three months later we still need answers to the questions we have. If anyone knows anything about what happened to Danny that day then please contact Crimestoppers."

Crimestoppers' North East Regional Manager, Dave Hunter, said:
"This is a heartbreaking time for Danny's family as they continue to try to come to terms with his tragic death. They desperately need to know exactly what happened on that day.

Crimestoppers would urge anyone with information to contact the charity anonymously, safe in the knowledge that no one will ever know you contacted us."

If you have any information on this incident please contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 or through our anonymous online form.

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UPDATED 9th November 2013

Danny's uncle Scott Sherlock read out a statement to the press, where he describes the last week as a 'living nightmare'.

The toddler's mum Karen and dad Danny also joined Scott as the statement was read out.

The family also said
'Imagine if this was your little boy and how you would be feeling. With this in mind, please contact police immediately.' 

 You can watch the full press conference below:

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UPDATED NOVEMBER 7TH 2013 - 4pm

Police believe 3 year old Danny Wake was hit by a van on Falmer Road in Darlington on Monday

The vehicle police are interested in tracing is a light in colour Mercedes Sprinter style van.

The vehicle is described as having red markings along the side and rear and possibly a red logo.

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UPDATED 7TH NOVEMBER 2013 - 6am

Relatives of a 3 year old boy who died after being knocked over in Darlington say he was a "loving and caring boy"

Danny Wake was walking with his mum and two siblings on Falmer Road at 10:35 on Monday morning when he was hit.

His family have since released the following statement:
“Danny was a beautiful, loving and caring little boy, always laughing with a cheeky little smile. He had lots of friends and was adored by his little brother Georgie.

We just can’t find words to describe how much our very special boy will be missed by all of the family.”

The driver didn't stop at the scene of the crash, but a 24 year old man was later questioned by police and released without charge.

Durham Police have held a press conference appealing to anyone who was in the area at the time of the collision to come forward with information.

Watch their full press conference below: