May 9, 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 harrowing incident unfolded in Adelaide when a teenage boy discovered his parents lying seriously injured on the road after they were struck by a van while walking their dog.

The crash occurred just before 9:00 am on Friday, May 9, 2025 , at an intersection on Montacute Road in Newton , a location that locals have previously flagged as dangerous. The victims — a 48-year-old woman and her 51-year-old husband — were crossing the street with their dog when a van driven by a 91-year-old man from Rostrevor hit both of them.

The woman suffered critical head injuries , while her husband sustained serious injuries. Both were taken to hospital for emergency treatment. Their dog was unharmed.

Witnesses described the teenage son arriving at the scene shortly after the impact, visibly distraught and inconsolable .

The elderly driver was also deeply upset and has been reported for two counts of dangerous driving . His licence has been suspended indefinitely.

Location and Time

  • Crash Date: Friday, May 9, 2025 (approximately 9:00 am).
  • Location: Montacute Road, Newton, Adelaide, South Australia.

Vehicles Involved

  • A **van** driven by a 91-year-old man from Rostrevor.

Injuries/Fatalities

  • Serious Injuries:
    • The 51-year-old man was struck and sustained serious injuries. He was taken to hospital for treatment.
  • Critical Injuries:
    • The 48-year-old woman suffered critical head injuries and was rushed to hospital following the collision.
  • No Injuries:
    • The family’s dog was not injured in the crash.
    • The 91-year-old van driver was not physically hurt but was visibly shaken.

Emergency Response

  • Paramedics attended the scene promptly and treated both victims before transporting them to hospital.
  • Police and emergency services secured the area and began immediate investigations into the crash.

“He was in tears … he was just inconsolable.”
— Witness Sandra Liberatore describing the teenage son’s reaction upon finding his parents

Witness Account
Eyewitness Sandra Liberatore provided a chilling account of the moment of impact:

“There was a couple crossing the road with their dog. The van hit both people. The lady landed on the floor and he ran over her.”
— Witness Sandra Liberatore

Her statement highlights concerns about pedestrian safety at this particular intersection, which has a history of incidents.

Legal and Investigative Action

  • The **91-year-old driver** has been reported for **two counts of dangerous driving**.
  • His **driver’s license has been suspended indefinitely** pending further investigation.

Authorities are currently assessing whether charges will be laid beyond the initial reports.

Community Impact
This incident has reignited long-standing concerns among local residents about the safety of the Montacute Road and Newton intersection , which has seen multiple crashes and close calls.

The emotional trauma experienced by the couple’s teenage son adds another layer of heartbreak to the event. Witnesses and neighbors have called for urgent review and potential modifications to the intersection to prevent future tragedies.

Appeal for Information
Anyone with dashcam footage or relevant observations is urged to come forward to assist police with their inquiry.

  • Crime Stoppers SA: Call 1800 333 000 or report online at www.crimestopperssa.com.au.
  • Witnesses can also provide tips via the South Australia Police website or local stations.