Adelaide Father Killed in Crash Remembered as Devoted Dad and Talented Poker Player
A 40-year-old father has been remembered as a beloved mate and devoted dad after he was killed in a crash, leaving his family and friends shattered. Victor Zajarskas, 40, was behind the wheel of a Holden sedan that left the road and ploughed into a fence in inner Adelaide just before 4.30pm on Friday.
Police and paramedics rushed to the scene on Stroud Street South at Cheltenham before he was rushed to hospital in critical condition. Tragically, despite desperate efforts, he died shortly after arriving at the hospital.
Tributes Pour In for Talented Poker Player
Tributes have poured in for the talented poker player, with the Southern Poker Tour honouring one of its regulars. The group said, "SPT would like to extend our sincere condolences to the family and friends of Victor Zajarskas after his tragic passing on Friday."
Zajarskas' death is one of three tragedies to hit South Australian roads over the Adelaide Cup long weekend, highlighting a devastating spike in fatal incidents.
Additional Fatal Cashes Over the Weekend
In the Riverland, a 23-year-old Barmera man died after his Nissan station wagon crashed into a stone wall on the Karoonda Highway about 4.15am on Saturday. He was the sole occupant and succumbed to his injuries in hospital.
Later on Saturday, a 37-year-old Freeling man was killed when his Harley Davidson collided with a 4WD at Evanston in Adelaide's north just before 6.30pm. The 77-year-old Hillier man driving the Toyota was not injured but has been reported for causing death by careless driving and issued an instant loss of licence.
Police Investigation and Safety Warnings
Major Crash officers are investigating all three incidents. Police have labelled the weekend's toll "tragic" and "disappointing", urging drivers to slow down, stay focused, and avoid distractions.
A spokesperson emphasized, "Small actions can have real impact on road safety. It's more important to arrive a couple of minutes later than not arrive at all."
They warned that fatigue, speeding, and mobile phone use remain major contributors to fatal crashes. Police stated, "Every second your eyes are on your phone, they're not on the road ahead of you. Leave your phone alone while driving."
