A young woman has tragically died following an alleged deliberate hit-and-run incident on Queensland's Sunshine Coast, with an overseas tourist now facing upgraded charges.
Alleged Deliberate Act on Aerodrome Road
Emergency services rushed to Aerodrome Road in Maroochydore just before midnight on Saturday, December 13, after reports a vehicle had struck a group of pedestrians. Police allege a white Toyota Yaris mounted the curb and ploughed into eight people.
The driver, identified as a 38-year-old overseas tourist staying locally, allegedly fled the scene. He was later tracked down at a nearby address and taken into custody.
Victim Succumbs to Critical Injuries
The most critically injured was a 24-year-old woman from New South Wales, who had flown north to visit family before Christmas. She suffered life-threatening injuries and was airlifted to the Royal Brisbane and Women's Hospital.
Tragically, she succumbed to her injuries late on Monday. Detective Acting Inspector Peter Hocken expressed the profound impact of the loss. "This is a tragedy, it's terrible what's happened for this poor woman and her family before Christmas. It's inconceivable really," Hocken said.
Charges Upgraded Following Death
The incident is being treated as a deliberate act. Inspector Hocken stated the alleged attack followed a minor altercation between the driver and a group of teenage boys moments earlier.
Other victims included two 18-year-old men and a 19-year-old man, who were taken to Sunshine Coast University Hospital with non-life-threatening injuries. A teenage boy was assessed with potentially life-threatening head injuries.
The accused was initially charged with eight counts of attempted murder and remanded. Following the woman's death, police confirmed they are expected to upgrade the charges. He is due to reappear in Maroochydore Magistrates Court on December 19.
Investigations remain ongoing, and police are urging anyone with information about the hit-and-run to come forward.
