‘One of a Kind’: Fiancé Pays Tribute to Woman Killed in E-Scooter Crash at Lithgow Intersection – February 28, 2025

Incident Overview
A tragic e-scooter crash at the intersection of the Great Western Highway and Lee Street in Lithgow, NSW, has claimed the life of 32-year-old Jessie Van Der Draay. The incident occurred on Friday, February 28, 2025 , at approximately 5:10 pm , when Van Der Draay collided with an Isuzu ute while riding her e-scooter. Despite the efforts of witnesses and paramedics, she succumbed to her injuries at the scene. The driver of the ute, a 44-year-old man, was taken to Lithgow Hospital for mandatory testing. Investigations into the crash are ongoing, and a report will be prepared for the coroner.

The death of Van Der Draay has sparked an outpouring of grief from her family and community, with her fiancé describing her as a “one of a kind” woman who was deeply loved and respected. Her passing highlights growing concerns about the safety of e-scooters and the need for clearer regulations governing their use.

Location and Time
The crash occurred at the busy intersection of the Great Western Highway and Lee Street in Lithgow, a town in the Central Tablelands of New South Wales. The incident took place during evening rush hour at approximately 5:10 pm on Friday, February 28, 2025 , when traffic volumes were likely high.

Vehicles Involved
The crash involved two parties:

• An e-scooter ridden by Jessie Van Der Draay.
• An Isuzu ute driven by a 44-year-old man.

The collision occurred at the intersection, leaving Van Der Draay critically injured. The e-scooter’s limited visibility and protection compared to larger vehicles like the ute highlight the risks associated with such mobility devices, particularly in high-traffic areas.

Crash Description
According to police reports, Jessie Van Der Draay was riding her e-scooter at the intersection when she collided with the Isuzu ute. Witnesses at the scene immediately rushed to her aid, attempting to save her life until NSW Ambulance paramedics arrived. Despite their best efforts, Van Der Draay tragically died at the scene.

The driver of the ute remained at the scene and cooperated with authorities. He was taken to Lithgow Hospital for mandatory testing, which is standard procedure in fatal crashes. Police are investigating the circumstances surrounding the collision, including whether speed, distraction, or road conditions played a role.

Injuries/Fatalities

• Jessie Van Der Draay, 32, tragically died at the scene despite the efforts of witnesses and paramedics.

No other individuals were injured in the crash.

Emergency Response
Emergency services, including paramedics and police, were dispatched to the scene shortly after the crash was reported. Paramedics worked tirelessly to revive Van Der Draay but were unable to save her. Police secured the area and conducted a thorough investigation, examining skid marks, vehicle damage, and witness statements to determine the cause of the crash.

The driver of the ute was transported to Lithgow Hospital for mandatory testing, as required by law in fatal accidents. Authorities are appealing for witnesses or anyone with dashcam footage to come forward to assist with their inquiries.

Community Impact
The death of Jessie Van Der Draay has left her family, friends, and community devastated. Her fiancé, Kayla Bunting, shared a heartfelt tribute online, describing Van Der Draay as a loving partner and devoted stepmother to two girls.

“Jessie always made sure I and the girls had everything to make us happy because if we were happy, she was happy,” Bunting wrote.

She also highlighted Van Der Draay’s kindness and resourcefulness, noting that she was always willing to help others and could often be found working on projects around the house or cooking meals for loved ones.

“She was one of a kind, and someone who cannot be replaced,” Bunting said.

To honor her memory, a GoFundMe page has been set up to raise funds for Van Der Draay’s funeral service. Bunting urged those able to donate to contribute, stating, “Help me raise money so I can show her the farewell she deserves.”

The tragedy has reignited discussions about the safety of e-scooters and the need for stricter regulations to protect riders.

Investigation
Police are conducting a thorough investigation into the crash, focusing on several key areas:

• The actions of both the e-scooter rider and the driver of the ute leading up to the collision.
• Potential contributing factors such as speed, distraction, or road conditions.
• Whether the e-scooter was being operated legally under NSW laws.

Authorities are appealing for witnesses or anyone with dashcam footage to come forward. Information can be provided to Crime Stoppers anonymously by calling 1800 333 000 or submitting a report online at www.crimestoppers.com.au .

E-Scooter Safety Concerns
Van Der Draay’s death comes amid growing concerns about the safety of e-scooters and the lack of consistent regulations governing their use across Australia. A recent Legislative Council report highlighted that the rapid adoption of e-mobility devices has outpaced legislation, creating confusion and potential risks for users.

In NSW, privately owned e-scooters are illegal on public roads and paths, though rental e-scooters are currently being trialed in select areas. However, critics argue that existing laws are not adequately enforced, and many riders remain unaware of the rules.

The report called for improved education at the point of sale to ensure users understand the legal requirements and safety risks associated with e-scooters. It also emphasized the need for a regulatory framework that adapts to the evolving use of e-mobility devices.

The NSW Government acknowledged the need for continuous monitoring and adjustment of regulations to address safety concerns and protect vulnerable road users like Van Der Draay.

Contributing Factors
While the investigation is ongoing, potential contributing factors include:

• Rider or driver error, such as failing to yield or misjudging distances at the intersection.
• Possible distractions, such as mobile phone use, affecting either party’s ability to respond appropriately.
• Road conditions or visibility issues at the busy intersection of the Great Western Highway and Lee Street.
• The legality and safety of e-scooter use on public roads, given the current regulatory gaps.