A former Nationals political candidate has been charged over a deadly crash that killed a high school teacher last week. Benjamin Simpkins, 26, is accused of hitting Luke Russell, 49, and leaving him for dead.
Russell was found unresponsive on Marri Drive in Katanning, about three hours southeast of Perth, just after 5:30am on Wednesday, May 13. The teacher was just metres from his home when he suffered horrific injuries. Despite receiving first aid, he could not be saved.
Police claim Simpkins did not stop to help and instead drove 65 kilometres to work, where he went about his normal day. Police allege an associate messaged Simpkins that night, saying: “Did you see murder scene this morning on your way to work?” He allegedly replied, “No wtf”.
Alleged Attempts to Conceal Evidence
The Perth Magistrates Court was told on Wednesday that a witness saw Simpkins cleaning his car the next day. He is also alleged to have searched online what the obligations are following a crash, before deleting the search.
Police arrested the former Nationals WA political candidate, who ran for a legislative council seat at the 2025 state election, at his Katanning home. They also seized his mobile phone and Toyota Hilux, with DNA found on his car allegedly matching the victim’s.
Charges and Court Appearance
Simpkins is facing three charges: failing to stop after an incident occasioning death, failing to report an incident occasioning death, and having no authority to drive. Simpkins’ application for bail was denied, and he is due to appear in court again in June.
