Police Identify Suspect in Boy's Hit-and-Run Death

June 16, 2024
Collected from BBC

A man wanted by police on suspicion of killing a 12-year-old kid in a hit-and-run accident in Coventry has been identified.

Information on the whereabouts of Dolars Alexanders, 21, who is accused of causing death by hazardous driving, is being sought by West Midlands Police.

Police had named the deceased kid as Keaton Slater earlier on Sunday.

In a tribute released by the force, Keaton's family said he was "so beautiful inside and out," and "our fun-loving little comedian" who "just wanted to make everyone laugh and smile".

A black BMW found abandoned in New Arley on Friday evening has been seized, with officers continuing to appeal for the driver or anyone else who was in the car to come forward.

One person came forward on Saturday evening and has been voluntarily questioned and released while inquiries continue, said West Midlands Police.

"A family has lost a 12-year-old boy in an appalling incident and our thoughts remain with them," said Sgt Rich Evans.

"We are offering them support at this most dreadful of times, and we're keeping them informed as our work to trace those responsible goes on."

Sgt Evans urged those involved in the crash, or anyone who knows them, to search their consciences and "do the right thing".

Police are continuing to check CCTV from the area around the crash, and are appealing for any other witnesses to get in touch, particularly if they had dashcam or doorbell footage.

An online fundraiser to support Keaton's family had raised more than £31,000 by Sunday morning.