December 24, 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
Police have charged a teenager following investigations into a fatal pedestrian crash at Hodgson Vale in Toowoomba’s south. The incident occurred late on 31 December 2024, when a utility allegedly struck a man on Windermere Drive before leaving the scene. The pedestrian was taken to hospital but later died from his injuries. Charges were laid more than a year after the crash following an extensive Forensic Crash Unit investigation.

Location and Time

  • Crash Date: Tuesday, 31 December 2024 (shortly before 9:00pm)
  • Location: Windermere Drive near Hazelmere Court, Hodgson Vale, QLD

Vehicles Involved

  • White single-cab Toyota Hilux utility

Injuries/Fatalities

  • Fatalities:
    • 57-year-old Toowoomba man — pedestrian; died weeks later from injuries sustained in the crash.

Emergency Response

  • Paramedics transported the injured pedestrian to Princess Alexandra Hospital.
  • The driver of the utility allegedly failed to remain at the scene or render assistance.

Police Investigation
The Forensic Crash Unit conducted a protracted investigation before laying charges.

  • An 18-year-old Middle Ridge male has been charged with:
    • Driving without due care and attention causing death
    • Failing to remain at the scene and render assistance
    • Failing to comply with duties of a driver and give particulars to police
    • Driving a defective vehicle
  • The accused was 17 years old at the time of the alleged offence.
  • He is due to appear in Toowoomba Children’s Court on 8 January 2026.

Community Impact
The crash and subsequent death deeply affected the Hodgson Vale and Toowoomba communities, with the delayed passing of the victim extending the impact on family and loved ones.

Appeal for Information
Police continue to appeal for anyone with information or relevant vision of the incident or the moments leading up to it to come forward.

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