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Incident Overview
Tragedy struck Auburn South Primary School in Hawthorn East, Melbourne, on Tuesday afternoon, October 29, 2024, when a car crashed through a fence and struck a group of children. An 11-year-old boy was killed, and four other children were seriously injured.
Details of the Crash
Around 2:30 PM, a 40-year-old woman was performing a U-turn on Burgess Street after picking up her child from school when her car left the road, crashed through the school fence, and collided with a table where five children were seated near the sports field.
Fatality and Injuries
An 11-year-old boy sustained critical injuries and tragically died while being transported to the hospital. Two 11-year-old girls, a 10-year-old girl, and a 10-year-old boy were also injured and taken to the hospital with serious injuries. Two of the children are in serious but stable condition at the Royal Children’s Hospital, while the other two are in stable condition at the Monash Medical Centre.
Driver Arrested and Released
The driver of the car, a 40-year-old woman from Hawthorn East, was arrested at the scene but was later released pending further inquiries. Neither she nor her child were injured in the crash.
Investigation
The cause of the crash is still under investigation. Police are exploring various possibilities, including the possibility of a medical episode. Major Collision Investigation Unit detectives are examining the scene and gathering evidence.
Community Impact
The incident has deeply shocked and saddened the Auburn South Primary School community and the wider Melbourne community. Premier Jacinta Allan expressed her condolences and acknowledged the devastating impact of the crash. Parents and students who witnessed the incident are receiving support and counseling.
Conclusion
This tragic incident is a reminder of the importance of road safety, especially in areas with children. The community mourns the loss of the young boy and hopes for the speedy recovery of the injured children.