Trail date set for father and son from Kent accused of murdering 4-year-old in crash
The men have appeared at Maidstone Crown Court
A trial date has been set for a father and son accused of murdering a four-year-old member of their family in a car crash.
Patrick Maughan, 53, and Owen Maughan, 27 - both from Hill Rise in Darenth, Kent - appeared via videolink at Maidstone Crown Court on Friday over the death of four-year-old Peter Maughan.
They are charged with his murder, as well as causing grievous bodily harm to Peter's father Lovell Mahon, 24, who is in a critical condition in hospital.
Both men are also charged with the attempted wounding with intent of Peter's sister, one-year-old Annarica Maughan, and the mother of the children, Hayley Maughan.
Owen Maughan has accepted that he was driving the vehicle at the time of the crash, while Patrick Maughan has accepted he was a passenger.
It is understood that Hayley Maughan is the first cousin of Owen Maughan.
The pair appeared via separate videolinks from HMP Elmley, Owen Maughan wearing a light blue shirt, and his father in a grey prison jumper.
A provisional trial date has been set for February 2 at Maidstone Crown Court, and is expected to last four weeks.
The charges relate to a collision involving two Ford Ranger pick-up trucks on New Barn Road in Dartford, Kent, just before 9.30pm on Sunday.
Judge Oliver Saxby said: "Well all things being equal, your trial will take place in February next year."
The two suspects are to remain in custody and will next appear at Maidstone Crown Court for a plea and trial preparation hearing on July 7.