April 16, 2025

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Incident Overview
A three-year-old girl named Heidi tragically lost her life after being struck by a car in the beach town of Ocean Grove , on Victoria’s Bellarine Peninsula , last Friday afternoon. The incident occurred when a 71-year-old woman allegedly lost control of her vehicle, colliding with Heidi on the footpath. A statement released through Victoria Police highlights the deep grief felt by Heidi’s parents, Nathan and Liesl, who described their daughter as “the most beautiful child” whose light touched everyone she met.

Location and Time

  • Crash Date: Friday, April 12, 2025 (afternoon).
  • Location: Ocean Grove, Bellarine Peninsula, Victoria.

Details of the Incident
The crash occurred when a car driven by a 71-year-old woman reportedly lost control and struck Heidi, who was on the footpath. Emergency services attended the scene, but tragically, Heidi succumbed to her injuries. The driver was arrested following the incident, and police are continuing their investigation into the circumstances surrounding the crash.

As of Wednesday, April 16, 2025 , authorities have stated there is no update to the investigation.

Heidi’s Legacy
In a heartfelt statement, Heidi’s parents, Nathan and Liesl, remembered their daughter as a joyful and loving child who brought light to everyone she met.

“Heidi was the most beautiful child who loved to sing,” they said. “Her favourite song was ‘This little light of mine, I’m gonna let it shine’, and she had been shining her light into the lives of her family and the lives of all who met her throughout her three-and-a-half years.”

The family expressed gratitude for the overwhelming support they have received from the local community and beyond. They also extended compassion toward the driver involved, saying:

“We are praying she is receiving the love and support she needs.”

Community Response
The tragedy has deeply affected the Ocean Grove community, with an outpouring of love and tributes left at the crash site. Cards, flowers, and messages have been placed in Heidi’s memory, reflecting the profound impact she had on those who knew her.

Nathan and Liesl shared their appreciation for this support, stating:

“Since last Friday, the outpouring of love has been beyond description. The support of the local community and many from across Australia and abroad has been overwhelming.”

They emphasized that their faith, along with the love of family, friends, and their church community, would help them move forward.

“We will be able to go forward with the love and support of our family, friends, church community, and our faith in our loving God.”

Emergency Response
Paramedics and police responded swiftly to the scene, providing medical assistance and support to Heidi and her family. In their statement, Nathan and Liesl praised emergency responders for their “incredible compassion” during the devastating incident.

Police Investigation
Authorities continue to investigate the crash, focusing on:

  • The sequence of events leading to the loss of vehicle control.
  • Road conditions, visibility, and signage at the time of the incident.
  • Potential factors such as distraction, fatigue, or mechanical failure.

As of Wednesday, April 16, 2025, there is no new information available regarding charges or further details about the driver involved.

Appeal for Information
While authorities have not issued a formal appeal for information, anyone with dashcam footage, CCTV recordings, or eyewitness accounts from the area around the time of the crash is encouraged to contact Victoria Police :