July 10, 2025

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Incident Overview
A woman has died and two others, including a toddler, are in critical condition after they were struck by a vehicle while walking on a footpath in Wantirna South, Melbourne’s east. The crash occurred on Thursday afternoon, July 11, 2025, on Coleman Road. Police said the vehicle, driven by a 91-year-old woman, mounted the curb and hit the pedestrians from behind before travelling a further 200 metres and crashing through a fence into a park. Detectives from the Major Collision Investigation Unit are examining the circumstances.

Location and Time

  • Crash Date: Thursday, July 11, 2025 (afternoon)
  • Location: Coleman Road, Wantirna South, Melbourne, Victoria

Vehicles Involved

  • Passenger vehicle – allegedly driven by a 91-year-old woman, struck pedestrians on the footpath and continued into a park

Injuries/Fatalities

  • Fatality:
    • A woman believed to be aged in her 30s or 40s died at the scene after being struck.
  • Serious Injuries:
    • A man and a young boy (believed to be a toddler) were transported to hospital in critical condition with life-threatening injuries.
  • Other Injuries:
    • The 91-year-old female driver was taken to hospital for assessment. She was described as “terribly shaken” by the event.

Emergency Response
Emergency services, including SES, paramedics, and police, attended the scene promptly. A temporary shelter was erected near the playground where the car came to a stop. The footpath and park area were cordoned off while investigations were carried out.

Investigation
Victoria Police’s Major Collision Investigation Unit is continuing inquiries. Key investigation points include:

  • The potential loss of control on the downhill section of Coleman Road
  • The driver’s fitness to hold a licence, given her age
  • Witness statements and CCTV footage from nearby properties

Police have confirmed the crash does not appear to have been intentional. The 91-year-old driver will be interviewed.

Community Impact
The crash has shocked the local community, with Superintendent Justin Goldsmith describing it as a “tragedy” amidst what has already been a horrific month for road trauma in Victoria. Residents have expressed concern about pedestrian safety along busy suburban corridors, particularly in areas frequented by families and children.

Witnesses/Appeals
Victoria Police are appealing for any witnesses, dashcam footage, or CCTV from the Coleman Road area around the time of the crash to assist the investigation: