August 6, 2025

Carter Capner Law monitors accidents involving cars, motorcycles, trucks, busses, cyclists and trams throughout Australia to spotlight safety issues of concern to our clients and to demonstrate those situations in which they may have a right to an insurance or compensation recovery. We act for drivers, riders, passengers, pedestrians. Call today on 1300 529 529 or click here to reach Carter Capner Law. Click on Client Showcase to view our history of road accident compensation claims.

Incident Overview
The family of two siblings killed in a head-on collision in Rochester, Victoria, have spoken out after Victoria Police closed the investigation without laying charges. The victims were travelling to celebrate cancer remission news when their lives were tragically cut short.

Location and Time

  • Crash Date: Friday, 5 July 2024
  • Location: Northern Highway, 5km south of Rochester, VIC

Vehicles Involved

  • Vehicle 1: Passenger vehicle driven by Peter Grant with Dianne Smith as passenger
  • Vehicle 2: Ute carrying two passengers

Injuries/Fatalities

  • Deceased: Peter Grant, 65, from Shepparton; Dianne Smith, 68, from Kyabram
  • Injured: Ute driver and two passengers (extent of injuries not fully detailed)

Crash Description
Peter Grant and Dianne Smith were en route to Bendigo to share the news of Ms Smith’s cancer remission when their car collided head-on with a ute. Both siblings died at the scene. Their family alleges the ute veered into the wrong lane, and police reportedly confirmed Peter Grant was not at fault.

Investigation Status
Victoria Police conducted a year-long investigation and concluded that no charges would be laid due to “no reasonable prospect of conviction.” Police cited that the driver of the ute provided limited cooperation. The family was informed 11 days after the crash anniversary.

Family’s Statement
Nieces Amanda and Bronwyn expressed deep frustration and disappointment with the outcome, stating, “There’s no justice… [he] will be walking free.” They are committed to keeping the memory of their uncle and aunt alive and want the public to understand the human cost of fatal crashes.

Support and Community Response
Renee Brauer from Amber Community commented that the absence of formal justice can intensify grief, leaving families without closure. The family is advocating for greater awareness of how driver behaviour can devastate lives, even without legal consequences.

Contact Details

  • Victoria Police: [Contact Link](https://www.police.vic.gov.au)
  • Amber Community: [Amber Community Website](https://ambercommunity.org.au)