July 11, 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 16-year-old Melbourne boy, Diego Dinelli, was fatally struck by a ute while crossing Tucker Road in Bentleigh on the evening of July 4, 2025. Diego had just left a school holiday BBQ with friends and was hit at approximately 9:00 pm. The tragedy occurred on the anniversary of his father’s death, compounding grief for his family. The 23-year-old driver of the ute stopped on nearby Huntington Road and was later interviewed by police. A report will be prepared for the coroner.

Location and Time

  • Crash Date: Thursday, July 4, 2025 (approximately 9:00 pm)
  • Location: Tucker Road near Huntington Road, Bentleigh, Melbourne, Victoria

Vehicles Involved

  • Ute – driven by a 23-year-old man from Ormond

Injuries/Fatalities

  • Fatality:
    • 16-year-old Diego Dinelli was pronounced dead at the scene after being struck while crossing the road.
  • Other Injuries:
    • No other injuries were reported.

Emergency Response
Emergency services attended the scene swiftly. The driver remained at the scene and was later interviewed by police. A memorial has since formed on Tucker Road where flowers, photos, candles, and tributes have been placed by grieving family, friends, and classmates.

Investigation
Victoria Police have confirmed the 23-year-old driver was interviewed and released pending further enquiries. Investigators are reviewing:

  • The circumstances under which the pedestrian was struck
  • Lighting and visibility conditions on Tucker Road at the time
  • Eyewitness accounts and any available dashcam or CCTV footage

A report will be prepared for the coroner.

Community Impact
The Bentleigh community has been left devastated by Diego’s sudden passing. A vigil was held at the crash site and a GoFundMe page has been established to support his family. Diego was remembered as bright, cheerful, and full of promise. The tragedy also drew attention to pedestrian safety on suburban roads and the emotional toll of road trauma.

Witnesses/Appeals
Victoria Police are continuing to appeal for witnesses and any dashcam footage from Tucker Road around 9:00 pm on July 4, 2025. Anyone with relevant information is urged to contact: