Pedestrian killed in Ascot Vale crash, Victoria on Saturday, 18 April 2026

What happened

Incident Overview
A 20-year-old pedestrian was killed after being struck by a car outside Supanova Comic-Con at the Flemington Showgrounds in Ascot Vale, Melbourne. Police allege the vehicle crossed several lanes before mounting the kerb and travelling along the footpath, striking multiple pedestrians.

Location and Time

• Crash Date: Saturday, 18 April 2026 (about 5pm)
• Location: Flemington Showgrounds, Ascot Vale, VIC

Vehicles Involved

• Toyota Echo, alleged to have crossed several lanes and mounted the kerb before continuing along the footpath.

Injuries/Fatalities

• Fatalities:
  • Volkan Aksoy, 20, pedestrian, died at the scene.
• Injuries:
  • Man, 20, pedestrian, taken to hospital with serious lower-body injuries.
  • Man (age not stated), pedestrian, uninjured but taken to hospital for observation.

Emergency Response

• The driver was detained at the scene by an off-duty police officer and a bystander, police said.
• Ambulance crews transported the injured man to hospital; a third man was also taken for observation.
• Road closure and diversion details were not provided.

Police Investigation
Police said nothing suggested the crash was caused by a medical episode and investigators were examining factors including speed, alcohol, drugs and driver distraction. Police also indicated inquiries would include toxicology, forensic examination of the vehicle, CCTV review, witness statements and crash reconstruction.

• A 33-year-old learner driver, Awer Dau, was charged with dangerous driving causing death and culpable driving.
• He appeared in court on Sunday, did not apply for bail, and was remanded in custody to next appear on 15 September.

Community Impact
Floral tributes were left at the convention site and a minute’s silence was observed on the second day of the event, attended by thousands of people.

Appeal for Information
Police have urged anyone who witnessed the incident or has relevant information, including CCTV or dashcam footage, to come forward.

• Crime Stoppers QLD: Call 1800 333 000 or report online.
• Policelink: Call 131 444.