Detectives from the Major Collision Investigation Unit (MCIU) have charged a 66-year-old Mount Macedon man in connection with a catastrophic collision in Daylesford last month. The incident, which resulted in the tragic loss of five lives, occurred on Vincent Street and has deeply affected the community.
The man faces serious charges, including five counts of culpable driving causing death, two counts of negligently causing serious injury, and seven counts of reckless conduct endangering life. He is scheduled to appear before the Melbourne Magistrates’ Court today.
The collision occurred just after 6 pm on November 5, when a BMW SUV reportedly mounted the kerb and struck several patrons outside a licensed establishment on Vincent Street.
The situation worsened when Victoria Police also confirmed that a 38-year-old Tarneit man, Vivek Bhatia, and his 11-year-old son Vihaan died instantly.
Additionally, Vivek’s wife, a 36-year-old woman, and their second six-year-old son were among those injured and taken to the hospital. Thankfully, they have since been released after receiving necessary medical care.
Others affected in the tragic incident included a 43-year-old Kyneton woman, a 38-year-old Cockatoo man, and an 11-month-old baby boy. All of them were hospitalized following the collision but have been discharged after treatment.
The Indian Australian community has been left reeling in the aftermath of this tragic event, raising questions about road safety and driver responsibility. The legal proceedings against the accused will be closely watched by a community seeking justice for the victims and their families.
This incident serves as a stark reminder of the devastating consequences of negligent driving and the importance of adhering to road safety regulations to prevent such heartbreaking incidents. The loss of lives in this collision has not only affected the families and friends of the deceased. Still, it has also impacted the wider community, highlighting the need for continued efforts to enhance road safety and awareness.
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