Man jailed for life after fatal hit and run crash in Dovercourt
29 year old Kerrin Repman died after being shunted from behind by a car driven by 42 year old Keith McCarthy
A man has been jailed for life with a minimum of 22 years after a hit and run crash which killed a man in Dovercourt.
Kerrin Repman died after being shunted from behind by a BMW while driving along Marine Parade on April 15 2020.
Police believe it was a targeted attack.
42 year old Keith McCarthy, of no fixed address, has also been convicted of GBH with intent after the moped involved in the crash hit a woman in her 70s.
She was treated in hospital for serious injuries.
29 year old Kerrin was treated at the scene by plain clothed police officers, but died from his injuries.
McCarthy was tracked down in Ireland and was deported back to the UK, after leaving the country in an effort to evade justice.
Today he was handed life in prison with a minimum of 22 years at St Albans Crown Court.
If he is released from prison he will be banned from driving for 31 years.
Senior Investigating Officer for the case, Detective Superintendent Scott Egerton said:
“All of the officers and staff members who have investigated Kerrin’s murder over the past two years have been determined to secure justice for his family and the woman significantly injured while out walking that day.
“It’s our motivation day in and day out in every case we work on.
“This investigation has been an excellent collaboration between numerous law enforcement agencies with a shared common goal.
“Not only did our hard work unanimously convince the jury that he murdered Kerrin, but it’s resulted in McCarthy being given a life sentence and we’re all extremely proud and honoured to have been a part of that.
“We’re also extremely grateful for the support shown by both Kerrin’s family and the woman injured in the collision throughout this incredibly difficult time.”
After hearing the sentence, Kerrin’s family said:
“Everyone used to say you would know Kerrin was in the room before you saw him. He had the best laugh and the biggest smile. He’s our ray of sunshine.
“The impact this has had on his three young children is unimaginable. They’re so confused, they still ask us where their dad is.
“As a mother, I wanted to always have Kerrin with me so I have his picture tattooed on my arm. His young daughter will kiss it when she visits.
“Although we’re thrilled that McCarthy was found guilty and will spend his days behind bars, no amount of time will ever be enough to fill the hole that is missing in our lives.
“We shouldn’t have to go to Kerrin’s grave each Christmas and birthday. He should be here with his family. "
A 54-year-old man, a 46-year-old man, a 33-year-old woman and a 19-year-old man arrested during the investigation will face no further action.