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Incident Overview
Mel Copeland, a 39-year-old woman, tragically lost her life after her Suzuki motorcycle collided with a parked car on Midway Road in Elizabeth Downs, Adelaide’s northern suburbs. The crash occurred just before 10:00 pm on Tuesday, February 11, 2025. Tributes have poured in from friends and family, while residents highlight concerns about the safety of this stretch of road.
Location and Time
The crash occurred on Midway Road in Elizabeth Downs, located in Adelaide’s northern suburbs. The incident took place at approximately 9:50 pm on Tuesday, February 11, 2025 .
Vehicles Involved
The crash involved a Suzuki motorcycle, ridden by Mel Copeland, and a parked car. No further details about the make or model of the parked car have been released.
Crash Description
Mel Copeland was traveling on her Suzuki motorcycle when she lost control and slammed into the back of a parked car. The impact was severe, throwing her from the bike and causing critical injuries. Neighbors who heard the collision rushed to assist but were unable to save her. Emergency services arrived shortly afterward, but she was pronounced dead at the scene.
Injuries/Fatalities
Mel Copeland sustained fatal injuries as a result of the crash and was pronounced dead at the scene. No other individuals were injured in the incident.
Emergency Response
Emergency personnel, including paramedics and police, were dispatched to the scene shortly after 9:50 pm. Despite their efforts, Mel Copeland could not be revived. Officers secured the area and conducted an investigation into the crash. Residents laid flowers at the crash site the following afternoon to pay their respects.
Investigation
Authorities are investigating the circumstances surrounding the crash, including potential factors such as speed, road conditions, visibility, or mechanical issues. Residents have raised concerns about the safety of this stretch of Midway Road, citing multiple previous crashes and suggesting that traffic-calming measures, such as a roundabout, could help prevent future incidents.
Witnesses/Appeals
Police are urging anyone who witnessed the crash or has relevant information to come forward. They are particularly interested in speaking to drivers or pedestrians who were traveling on Midway Road in Elizabeth Downs around 9:50 pm on Tuesday, February 11, 2025 . Dashcam or CCTV footage from nearby properties may also provide valuable evidence and can be submitted to investigators.
Community Impact
The tragic death of Mel Copeland has deeply affected the Elizabeth Downs community and the broader Adelaide region. Friends and family have paid tribute to her on social media, with heartfelt messages such as “Miss you mummy and I love you so much” and “Ride free gorgeous girl — forever missed.” Residents have expressed frustration over the safety of Midway Road, which they describe as a notorious stretch with a history of crashes. Suggestions for improvements include installing a roundabout to slow traffic and enhance safety.
Contributing Factors
While the investigation is ongoing, potential contributing factors could include excessive speed, driver distraction, poor visibility, or environmental conditions such as road surface or lighting. The condition of the motorcycle and whether safety gear was used may also be considered as part of the inquiry.