Victoria Police have issued a stern condemnation following reports of dangerous and disrespectful driving stunts at a roadside memorial in Corio, where a 15-year-old boy tragically lost his life.
Disrespectful Acts at a Site of Tragedy
The incident occurred on Sunday, March 17, at the intersection of Cox Road and Banks Road. This location has become a sombre shrine for a teenager who died in a car crash there in late February. Instead of a place for quiet reflection, police say the site was marred by "extremely alarming" behaviour from some drivers.
According to authorities, individuals performed burnouts and other dangerous car stunts directly at the memorial. This not only showed a profound lack of respect for the deceased and his grieving family and friends but also created a significant safety hazard for other road users and pedestrians in the area.
Police Response and Community Plea
Senior Sergeant Ben Huxtable of the Geelong Highway Patrol did not mince words in his assessment of the behaviour. He described the actions as deeply concerning and unacceptable.
"To attend a memorial site for a young person who has lost their life in a road trauma and then commit traffic offences, including burnouts, is extremely alarming," Senior Sergeant Huxtable stated. He emphasised that such acts compound the grief of the community and the victim's loved ones.
Police are now actively investigating the matter. They are urging anyone with information, including dashcam or mobile phone footage from the area around the specified time, to come forward. The community can contact Crime Stoppers anonymously on 1800 333 000 or submit a confidential report online.
A Pattern of Dangerous Behaviour
This event is not isolated. Victoria Police highlighted that it follows a recent spate of dangerous driving incidents linked to makeshift memorials in the Geelong region. There is a growing trend where these sites, intended for mourning, are becoming focal points for reckless and illegal driving exhibitions.
Authorities are treating this pattern with the utmost seriousness. They have vowed to increase patrols and enforcement around known memorial sites to prevent further disrespect and danger. The core message from police is clear: roads are for safe travel, not for stunts or performances, especially at locations marked by profound loss.
The death of the 15-year-old in February was a devastating event for the Corio and wider Geelong community. The establishment of a roadside shrine is a common and heartfelt response to such tragedies, allowing people to pay their respects. The recent antisocial behaviour has betrayed that sentiment, causing additional anguish.
Victoria Police's strong stance serves as a reminder of the legal and social responsibilities of all drivers. It also calls on the community to work together to protect the dignity of memorial sites and ensure public safety for everyone.
