An 84-year-old woman is set to face court following a tragic collision that claimed the life of a six-year-old boy in the Geelong region, sending shockwaves through the local community.
Tragic Incident Details
The fatal incident occurred around 3:45 PM on Tuesday, May 21, 2024, at the intersection of Shannon Avenue and Myers Street in Geelong. According to police reports, the elderly woman was driving a Hyundai sedan when she collided with young Rohan, who was crossing the road with his family.
Emergency services rushed to the scene following multiple distress calls from witnesses. Paramedics provided immediate medical attention to the six-year-old boy, but despite their efforts, he succumbed to his injuries at the scene. The driver of the vehicle remained at the location and cooperated with authorities as they began their investigation.
Legal Proceedings Commence
The 84-year-old Geelong woman has been charged with dangerous driving causing death following a thorough police investigation into the circumstances surrounding the collision. The charge represents one of the most serious traffic offenses under Victorian law.
Victoria Police confirmed that the accused woman has been released on bail and is scheduled to appear before the Geelong Magistrates' Court on October 8, 2024. The court date provides time for both the prosecution and defense to prepare their cases as the legal process moves forward.
Police investigators have been examining multiple factors that may have contributed to the tragic incident, including road conditions, visibility, and vehicle mechanics. The thorough investigation aims to provide the court with a comprehensive understanding of what occurred during those fateful moments.
Community in Mourning
The death of six-year-old Rohan has deeply affected the Geelong community, with local residents expressing their grief and offering support to the grieving family. Flowers, teddy bears, and heartfelt messages have been placed near the intersection where the tragedy occurred, creating a spontaneous memorial to the young boy.
Local schools and community organizations have rallied around the family, offering counseling services and practical support during this devastating time. The incident has also sparked conversations about road safety, particularly in areas with high pedestrian activity involving children.
This case highlights the ongoing concerns about elderly drivers and road safety, with statistics showing that drivers over 75 have higher crash rates per distance traveled than most other age groups, except for young novice drivers. However, authorities emphasize that each case must be considered individually based on its specific circumstances.
As the legal process begins, the community continues to mourn the loss of a young life cut short, while the accused woman faces the serious consequences of the charges brought against her. The upcoming court proceedings will be closely watched by both those directly affected and road safety advocates across the region.
