Killamarsh: Connie Gent's dad pays tribute to his 'angel' and 'best friend'

11-year-old Connie Gent was one of four people who were killed at a property in Killamarsh last month

Author: Chris Davis-SmithPublished 12th Oct 2021
Last updated 12th Oct 2021

The dad of a young girl who died in the Killamarsh tragedy last month says he wants the world to know how special his daughter was.

11-year-old Connie Gent was killed at a property on Chandos Crescent last month, along with three other people.

Her father-36-year-old Charlie Gent-admits life without her is 'almost unbearable':

"I'm waking up every day and I'm still here, but none of this feels real.

"It's a bit like I'm watching this as somebody else.

"She's been my best friend and she was my biggest fan.

"Every single moment I spent with my daughter was a special moment.

"I don't think you realise how special those moments are until something as tragic as this happens, so spend all the time you possibly can with your kids.

"It's going to be so hard to think of her not growing up. I wanted the world to know who Connie was. She's my angel.

"Connie liked to make everybody feel happy and help people. She never liked to see anybody upset or down.

"I used to take Connie everywhere, especially if I was ever performing as a DJ at a family friendly venue.

"Connie used to end up more popular than me at these events. She was very lovable and sociable. That's how I want people to remember her."

Damien Bendall, of Chandos Crescent in Killamarsh, is set to go on trial next year after being charged with murdering Connie, 11-year-old Lacey Bennett, 13-year-old John Paul Bennett and 35-year-old Terri Harris.

The 31-year-old defendant has been remanded into custody is due to next appear in court in November for a pre-trial hearing.

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