August 28, 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
A fatal head-on collision occurred on Diggers Rest–Coimadai Road in Toolern Vale, northwest of Melbourne, on Sunday morning, August 24, 2025. Will Thornton, 33, a father-to-be and fitness enthusiast, was killed instantly when his vehicle was struck by a speeding stolen car. The driver of the stolen vehicle, Brayden Filiti, 29, also died at the scene. Thornton, who had recently celebrated his first wedding anniversary with his wife Madi — an Australian Paralympic medallist expecting their first child — was on his way to training with the Melton Wolves gridiron club when the crash occurred.

“He was a deeply loving family man and his laughter, quick wit and gentle heart left a lasting mark on everyone lucky enough to know him.” — Thornton family statement

Location and Time

  • Crash Date: Sunday, August 24, 2025 (morning)
  • Location: Diggers Rest–Coimadai Road, Toolern Vale, northwest of Melbourne, Victoria

Vehicles Involved

  • Private vehicle driven by Will Thornton, 33 (deceased)
  • Stolen vehicle driven by Brayden Filiti, 29 (deceased)

Injuries/Fatalities

  • Fatality:
    • Will Thornton, 33, driver, died at the scene.
    • Brayden Filiti, 29, driver of stolen car, died at the scene.
  • Serious Injuries:
    • No additional serious injuries reported.
  • No Injuries:
    • No other individuals reported injured in the collision.

Emergency Response

  • Emergency services responded on Sunday morning following reports of a head-on crash on Diggers Rest–Coimadai Road.
  • Both drivers were declared deceased at the scene.
  • Police confirmed the vehicle driven by Filiti had been reported stolen from Werribee South the previous evening.

“Although Bill never had the chance to play a game in purple, he was already part of our Wolfpack… His impact and his spirit will never be forgotten.” — Melton Wolves Gridiron Club

Police Investigation
Victoria Police are examining:

  • The sequence of events leading to the stolen vehicle colliding head-on with Thornton’s car.
  • The theft of the vehicle from Werribee South the night before the crash.
  • Witness accounts and dashcam/CCTV footage from motorists in the Toolern Vale area at the time.

Community Impact
The death of Will Thornton has devastated his family, friends, and the sporting community. Tributes have been paid by his gridiron club, football and tennis clubs, and A-League team Melbourne City. His wife Madi, a Paralympic silver medallist, has been widowed just weeks before giving birth to their first child. A community fundraising campaign to support the family has already raised nearly $100,000.

Appeal for Information
Authorities are urging anyone with information or dashcam/CCTV footage to contact:

  • Crime Stoppers VIC: Call 1800 333 000 or report online at [www.crimestoppersvic.com.au](https://www.crimestoppersvic.com.au)
  • Witness Reporting: Contact Victoria Police directly or at the nearest local police station.